Naoki Matsuda (松田 直樹, Matsuda Naoki, 14 March 1977 – 4 August 2011)[1] was a Japanese professional footballer who played as a central defender for the Japan national team.

Matsuda moved to Japan Football League club Matsumoto Yamaga FC in 2011.

Although he played for qualify for promote to J2 League, in 2 August, he collapsed for myocardial infarction during training.

In August 1993, Matsuda was selected Japan U-17 national team for 1993 U-17 World Championship.

In April 1995, he was also selected Japan U-20 national team for 1995 World Youth Championship and he played full-time in all 4 matches.

In July 1996, Matsuda was selected Japan U-23 national team for 1996 Summer Olympics and he played full-time in all 3 matches.

[2] On 2 August 2011, Matsuda collapsed during training with Matsumoto Yamaga FC due to a cardiac arrest after finishing a 15-minute warmup run, and doctors diagnosed his condition as "extremely severe".

The funeral was held on 9 August 2011 and attendees included players who once played for Japan and Yokohama F.