(photo: Whitecaps FC, www.whitecapsfc.com)
I know I’m slowly flooding articles on Evolution with my whitecaps news but come on the boys deserve every bit of it. Let’s take a second to show some love to our number one – Yohei Takaoka. The man just hit 100 appearances for the Whitecaps. What a milestone!
He joined Whitecaps back in early 2023 from Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan. That year before he came here, he helped his old team win the J1 League title and even got named in the league’s Best XI. We signed him for around $1.25 million, which now feels like an absolute bargain.
Let’s look back at what he said when he first joined the ‘Caps.
“I think it’s going to be a good challenge for me. This is the first time to play out of Japan. I feel last year, I want to improve as a goalkeeper, as a person. And I need a new challenge.”
“I think I am the first Japanese goalkeeper to come here in MLS. I have to show how Japanese goalkeepers are good. I want to make the way for other Japanese goalkeepers.”
Yohei Takaoka, February 17, 2023
Since 2023, he’s been everything you want in a goalkeeper. Calm, fast, smart with the ball. And always there when we need a big save.
He’s got 100 matches now with the Whitecaps — 26 clean sheets and counting. This season alone, he’s already has 6 clean sheets and made over 35 saves. He’s been a huge part of why we’ve been solid at the back and on this amazing run in both MLS and the CONCACAF.
Right before I wrote this article, I was watching his clips on youtube. One of my favourite moments was that crazy game against LA — when he made that diving stop late in the second half. LEGEND!
Off the field, looks like he’s really settled in Vancouver. Fans even spotted him at Canucks games and out in the city, he is just blending in the community so well.
Goalies don’t always get the spotlight, but Yohei deserves it. Steady, reliable, and super consistent. Week in, week out and what else can you ask for?
100 games is a big deal, especially in a league like MLS where guys come and go. He’s been part of some huge moments for the club, and hopefully there’s a lot more ahead.
So congrats, Yohei. Here’s to the next 100 — and hopefully a CONCACAF trophy while we’re at it.
Watch a heartwarming clip from the changing room:
https://x.com/WhitecapsFC/status/1919116874862014772