Vissel Kobe turns 30: A celebration of legacy, community, and global connections

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Vissel Kobe celebrated its 30th anniversary with two matches that brought together current players and the legends who shaped the club’s history.

Vissel Kobe celebrated its 30th anniversary this summer, marking the occasion with two matches that brought together current players and the legends who shaped the club’s history. Fans filled Noevir Stadium Kobe for both games, celebrating not only the team’s past and present, but also its deep ties to the city

Friendly Match: Vissel Kobe vs. FC Barcelona – A global spectacle

On July 27, 2025, a packed Noevir Stadium welcomed FC Barcelona as part of their pre-season tour. The visitors won 3–1, with Eric Garcia opening the scoring in the 33rd minute and Vissel’s Taisei Miyashiro equalizing just before halftime. FC Barcelona pulled away in the second half with goals from Roony Bardghji and Pedro Sarmiento.

But the night was about more than the scoreline. For many fans, it was a rare chance to see global stars in Kobe, and to watch former teammates Andrés Iniesta and Xavi Hernández face each other once again—this time on opposing sides of the pitch.

Yosuke Ideguchi (left) rises for a header against visiting opponent Fermín López (right) as the crowd looks on. (C) VISSEL KOBE — *Yosuke Ideguchi (left) rises for a header against visiting opponent Fermín López (right) as the crowd looks on. (C) VISSEL* KOBE

Legends Match: KOBE DREAMS vs. WORLD DREAMS – An ode to history

The celebrations continued August 2 with a “Legends Match” charity event that reunited some of the most beloved players in Vissel Kobe history. The game pitted “KOBE DREAMS,” made up mostly of Japanese legends, against “WORLD DREAMS,” featuring international stars who once wore the club’s colors.

*Legendary Striker, Kazuyoshi Miura exchanges high fives with teammates after a stunning free kick. (C) VISSEL KOBE*

A touching moment as former head coach Stuart Baxter (left) and player Yoshito Okubo (right) share a joyful embrace on the sidelines. (C) VISSEL KOBE — *A touching moment between former head coach Stuart Baxter (left) and player Yoshito Okubo (right).*
*(C) VISSEL KOBE*

KOBE DREAMS edged the contest 4–3, with goals from Kazuyoshi Miura, Masatoshi Mihara, and a brace from Kazuma Watanabe. WORLD DREAMS saw the net ripple thanks to Botti, Leandro, and Yuzo Tashiro. The match felt like a reunion as much as a contest, with old teammates linking up again and the crowd cheering every touch from familiar names.

Three Decades of Heart, Resilience, and a Lasting Legacy

More than just football, the anniversary reminded fans how closely Vissel’s history is tied to Kobe’s own. Founded in the aftermath of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, the club has grown into a symbol of resilience and community pride.

The presence of Barcelona and the return of so many legends underlined Vissel Kobe’s place on the global football stage, while also celebrating its roots at home. A talk show reflecting on the club’s journey added further depth, connecting three decades of memories with the city’s ongoing story of recovery and renewal.

As the anniversary celebrations came to a close, one message rang clear: Vissel Kobe’s past is full of heart, and its future promises the same spirit.