Japan 1998 Away

The iconic ASICS Japan 1998 away long-sleeve shirt, featuring the crisp white base, bold red and blue accent detailing, and the embroidered JFA crest, is a rare and highly sought-after piece from Japan’s historic first appearance on the world stage.

Minimal, elegant, and unmistakably Japanese, it captures the nation’s footballing identity at its earliest international peak.

Worn during the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France, this shirt accompanied Japan as they made their long-awaited debut in global competition. Under coach Takeshi Okada, the Samurai Blue arrived with discipline, humility, and ambition, aiming to learn and establish themselves among world football’s elite.

At the heart of the team was Hidetoshi Nakata, whose composure, technique, and confidence quickly announced him as Japan’s first true international star. He was supported by pioneers of Japanese football such as Kazuyoshi Miura, Masashi Nakayama, Junichi Inamoto, Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi, and Hiroshi Nanami, forming a foundational squad that helped shape the future of Japanese football.

Japan’s group stage campaign included matches against Argentina, Croatia, and Jamaica, where they gained invaluable experience despite exiting at the first round.

More than just a football shirt, this away long-sleeve kit represents beginnings, resilience, and the birth of Japan’s modern football identity. A rare ASICS classic and a key collector’s piece from the Samurai Blue’s unforgettable World Cup debut.