Aston Villa goalkeeper Zion Suzuki completed 90 minutes as Japan beat New Zealand 2–1 to win the Kirin Cup on Monday.
Ritsu Doan scored the winner in the 71st minute at Tokyo’s National Stadium after Ben Old cancelled out Ayase Ueda’s first-half opener.
The Japan Football Association’s official match record confirms Suzuki started and remained in goal throughout the final.
The result gives the Villa keeper a winning finish to an international window that began with concern over his fitness.
Suzuki completes Japan turnaround after rib concern
Suzuki initially missed Japan’s match against Uruguay following a reported rib problem, before returning for the second half of their victory over Venezuela.
That return to playing action was followed by a clean sheet against Ecuador and a decisive penalty save in the semi-final shootout.
Monday’s final brought another full appearance, with Japan recovering from New Zealand’s equaliser to secure the friendly tournament trophy.
For Villa, Suzuki’s involvement provides further encouragement after the uncertainty earlier in the break. It also means he has maintained match practice before club football resumes.
Unai Emery’s side next face Brentford at Villa Park on Saturday 10 October, with kick-off at 3pm BST.
