Soccer: Former Japan international striker Kudo dies at 32

Former Japan international striker Masato Kudo, who also had stints with the Vancouver Whitecaps in Canada and Brisbane Roar in Australia, died Friday, his J-League third-division team Tegevajaro Miyazaki said. He was 32.

Kudo had been diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a buildup of fluid in the ventricles deep within the brain. He felt unwell on Oct. 2 and was hospitalized a day later.

"He made a significant impact in the first division," Tegevajaro Miyazaki said in a press release. "He played for Japan and had a great track record but he stayed humble."

"He had a great attitude, caring about teammates, the club and supporters. We are devastated that such a great player has passed away so early."

The Tokyo native scored two goals in four matches for Japan, all in 2013.

Kudo made his J-League debut in 2009 with Kashiwa Reysol and also played for Sanfrecce Hiroshima. He scored 60 goals in the first division across his career.

He joined Miyazaki this year from the A-League's Brisbane Roar and scored three goals in 21 league matches.

© Kyodo News