２０２３明治安田生命Ｊ１リーグ

20231021 サンフレッチェ広島

20231028 ガンバ大阪

20231112 横浜Ｆ・マリノス

20230923 ヴィッセル神戸

Ｃ大阪ボールでキックオフ、試合開始

神戸　予想フォーメーションは４－１－２－３。直近のリーグ戦からのスタメン変更は３人。大崎、川崎、汰木が外れ、扇原、井出、佐々木が入る。前節は広島に完封負けを喫し、５試合ぶりの敗戦となった。今節はＣ大阪をホームに迎える。目下３連敗中と相性が悪いが、連敗を避けるためにも、白星を飾って首位を堅持したい

Ｃ大阪　予想フォーメーションは４－４－２。直近のリーグ戦からのスタメン変更は１人。上門が外れ、北野が入る。前節は数的有利を生かせず、鹿島に痛恨の敗戦。連勝は３で止まった。今節の注目は北野。前回対戦では後半アディショナルタイムに値千金の決勝点を奪っている。今節もチームの勝利に貢献できるか

神戸の直近５試合は２勝２分け１敗。Ｃ大阪の直近５試合は３勝１分け１敗。両者の過去対戦成績は１９勝８分け１３敗とＣ大阪の勝ち越し

神戸　大迫は直近のリーグ戦５試合で３得点１アシストを記録

神戸は山口が、Ｃ大阪は香川がそれぞれキャプテンマークを巻く

神戸　前川が左サイドの相手陣深くにロングパスを展開。しかし、佐々木にはつながらずにボールは直接タッチラインを割ってしまう

Ｃ大阪　Ｊクルークスが初瀬との接触プレーで足を痛めたもよう。ピッチに倒れており、プレーが一時的に中断している

Ｃ大阪　Ｊクルークスはプレー続行可能なもよう。自力で立ち上がり、プレーを再開させる

神戸　大迫が右サイドの相手陣中央から右足でペナルティエリア中央に浮き球を供給するも、相手ＤＦにクリアされてしまう

Ｃ大阪　レオセアラが扇原との競り合いで出血したもよう。止血のため、いったんピッチの外に出て治療を受ける

Ｃ大阪　治療が完了し、レオセアラがピッチに戻ってプレーを再開させる

神戸　井出がペナルティエリア右に右足で浮き球を供給。武藤が走り込むが、相手ＤＦに体を入れられてしまい、シュートには至らない

神戸　舩木のコントロールミスを武藤が見逃さず、右サイドの相手陣浅い位置でボール奪取。相手陣中央の右にパスを送る。大迫が受けると、相手ＤＦに倒されてＦＫを獲得する

神戸　キッカーは初瀬。左足でゴールに向かう浮き球を送るが、ペナルティエリア中央で味方のオフサイドを取られてしまう

神戸　井出が佐々木とのワンツーで左サイドの突破を図る。しかし、佐々木からのリターンパスがつながらずにボールは直接タッチラインを割ってしまう

神戸　初瀬が左サイドの相手陣中央から左足でカーブを掛けた浮き球を供給。しかし、ペナルティエリア中央で相手ＤＦにクリアされてしまう

神戸　酒井が右サイドの相手陣深くから右足でクロスを送るが、相手ＤＦにクリアされてしまう

Ｃ大阪　カピシャーバが左サイドの相手陣深くからドリブルを仕掛けて左足でクロスを上げる。しかし、相手ＤＦに当たってゴールラインを割り、左ＣＫを得る

Ｃ大阪　キッカーはＪクルークス。左足でクロスを送るが、ニアサイドで相手ＤＦにクリアされてしまう

Ｃ大阪　カピシャーバが左サイドの相手陣深くにパスを送る。舩木が走り込み、ダイレクトで左足のクロスを送ると、Ｊクルークスが合わせに行く。しかし、その前に初瀬にクリアされてしまい、最終的には初瀬に対するファウルを取られてしまう

神戸　初瀬が自陣で相手のパスをカット。カウンターを仕掛ける。初瀬は右サイドに展開。大迫が受けると、ペナルティエリア手前の右にパスを送る。山口が反応して右足で浮き球を供給するも、味方にはつながらずにシュートまでは持ち込めない

神戸　右サイドで相手にプレッシャーを掛けてパスミスを誘発。山口がダイレクトで相手陣中央の右にパスを送る。大迫が受けると、ドリブルで運んでペナルティエリア手前の右から右足を振り抜く。しかし、これは枠の上に外れる

神戸　キッカーは初瀬。左足でクロスを送るが、ニアサイドで相手ＤＦにクリアされてしまう

Ｃ大阪　カピシャーバが左サイドの相手陣深くから左足でクロスを送るが、相手ＤＦにヘディングでクリアされる

神戸　武藤が右サイドの相手陣深くから右足でクロスを送るが、相手ＤＦにクリアされてしまう

神戸　大迫がペナルティエリア左でボールを受ける。しかし、対じした進藤に対応されてしまい、シュートは打てず

Ｃ大阪　相手のビルドアップに対して前線から積極的にプレッシャーを掛けていく

互いに球際で激しいボールの奪い合いが繰り広げられている

Ｃ大阪　キッカーは香川。右足でクロスを送ると、毎熊がニアサイドでそらしてペナルティエリア中央にボールを送る。しかし、本多にクリアされてしまう

神戸　井出は毎熊を後ろから倒してしまい、このプレーが警告の対象となる

神戸　キッカーの初瀬は左足でクロスを送るが、相手ＤＦにヘディングでクリアされてしまう

Ｃ大阪　レオセアラが左サイドの相手陣浅い位置でボールを受けると、ドリブル開始。左サイドの相手陣深くまでボールを運ぶが、２人の相手ＤＦに寄せられてボールを奪われてしまう

Ｃ大阪　Ｊクルークスが左サイドの相手陣深くから左足で球足の速いクロスを供給。しかし、佐々木の体を張ったブロックに遭う

Ｃ大阪　キッカーの香川が右足でクロスを上げるが、相手ＤＦにクリアされてしまう

神戸　武藤が右サイドの相手陣深くから左足でペナルティエリア右にパスを送る。しかし、味方との呼吸が合わずにボールはヤンハンビンに処理されてしまう

神戸　相手陣中央で佐々木が香川からボールを奪い、ショートカウンターを仕掛ける。最後は右サイドの相手陣深くから酒井が右足でクロスを供給するが、精度を欠いてしまい、ボールは直接ゴールラインを割ってしまう

神戸　酒井はカピシャーバに対して遅れてチャージしてしまい、このプレーが警告の対象となる

神戸　大迫がペナルティエリア手前の左でボールを拾うと、ドリブルで運んでペナルティエリア左から右足でシュートを放つ。これは相手ＤＦにブロックされてしまうが、ボールはペナルティエリア中央へ。山口が反応し、ボールが落ちてくるタイミングに合わせて右足を振り抜くが、シュートは枠の上に外れる

Ｃ大阪　カピシャーバがドリブルを仕掛けると、武藤に倒されてペナルティエリア手前の左でＦＫを獲得する

アディショナルタイムは１分の表示

Ｃ大阪　キッカーはレオセアラ。右足で低い軌道のシュートを放つが、壁に阻まれる

前半終了。スコアレスで試合を折り返す

神戸ボールでキックオフ、後半開始

ハーフタイムでの選手交代は両チームともになし

神戸　扇原がペナルティエリア右に柔らかい浮き球を供給。酒井が右足でダイレクトパスをペナルティエリア中央に入れるが、ファウルを取られてしまう

神戸　キッカーは初瀬。左足でクロスを供給するが、ヤンハンビンにパンチングされてしまう

神戸　酒井が右サイドの相手陣深くから左足で滞空時間の長いクロスを送る。しかし、ヤンハンビンに直接キャッチされてしまう

神戸　佐々木が左サイドの相手陣中央から右足でストレート性の浮き球をペナルティエリア中央に送る。しかし、相手ＤＦにクリアされてしまう

神戸　初瀬が右サイドの相手陣深くにロングパスを送る。山口が走り込むが、追い付けずにボールは直接ゴールラインを割ってしまう

Ｃ大阪　香川が右サイドから相手陣中央に斜めのパスを供給。舩木がダイレクトでペナルティエリア手前の右にボールを送る。レオセアラが反応して抜け出すが、オフサイドを取られてしまう

神戸　本多が左足で右サイドの相手陣中央にロングパスを送る。酒井が受けると、右足でアーリークロスを供給。ペナルティエリア中央で大迫が受けると、右足でシュートを放つ。しかし、枠の上に外れる

神戸　大迫がペナルティエリア手前の右にロングパスを送り、武藤が反応して抜け出す。武藤は右足で思い切ったシュートをペナルティエリア右から放つが、ヤンハンビンの好セーブに遭う

神戸　ゴール！！！初瀬がペナルティエリア手前の左に左足でロングパスを送る。佐々木が反応して進藤との競走に勝ち、前に出ると、最後はペナルティエリア中央から左足を振り抜く。これが、ゴール中央に決まって先制に成功する

神戸　今季のリーグ戦、先制に成功した試合は１６試合。１３勝２分け１敗で勝率は８１．３％

Ｃ大阪　５喜田ＯＵＴ→２５奥埜ＩＮ

Ｃ大阪　３８北野ＯＵＴ→７上門ＩＮ

神戸　井出がペナルティエリア手前の中央から左足でミドルシュートを放つ。しかし、枠はとらえられず

神戸　井出が右サイドからペナルティエリア手前の中央にパスを送る。大迫が受けると、さらにペナルティエリア左に展開。佐々木が受けると、右足でコースを狙ったシュートを放つ。しかし、枠の右に外れてしまう

Ｃ大阪　キッカーのＪクルークスが左足でインスイングのクロスを送ると、鳥海がペナルティエリア中央でヘディングシュートを放つ。しかし、枠の上に外れてしまう

Ｃ大阪　１１ＪクルークスＯＵＴ→４８柴山ＩＮ

神戸　酒井が香川に倒されて右サイドの相手陣中央でＦＫを獲得する

神戸　キッカーの初瀬が左足で柔らかい浮き球を送るが、相手ＤＦにクリアされてしまう

神戸　１８井出ＯＵＴ→２６ＪパトリッキＩＮ

神戸　武藤がペナルティエリア右から右足でペナルティエリア中央に折り返す。しかし、味方は合わせられず、相手ＤＦにクリアされてしまう

神戸　初瀬が左サイドの相手陣深くから右足でクロスを供給。Ｊパトリッキが頭で合わせるが、シュートは枠の右へ外れる

Ｃ大阪　２７カピシャーバＯＵＴ→２６新井ＩＮ

Ｃ大阪　９レオセアラＯＵＴ→３５渡邉ＩＮ

Ｃ大阪　奥埜がペナルティエリア手前の右にパスを送る。渡邉が受けると、ドリブルでペナルティエリア手前の中央に持ち込んで右足でシュートを放つ。しかし、相手ＤＦにブロックされてしまう

Ｃ大阪　香川が右サイドの相手陣中央に展開。柴山が受けると、対じした佐々木をかわしてペナルティエリア右に進入。そのまま左足でシュートを放つが、前川の好セーブに阻まれる

Ｃ大阪　柴山にイエローカード

Ｃ大阪　柴山は大迫を後ろからチャージして倒してしまい、このプレーが警告の対象となる

神戸　Ｊパトリッキが左サイドの相手陣深くから右足でクロスを送るが、精度を欠いて直接ゴールラインを割ってしまう

神戸　山口がペナルティエリア手前の中央に左足でパスを送る。佐々木が受けると、右足を振り抜く。だが、シュートは枠の上に外れてしまう

Ｃ大阪　新井が左サイドの相手陣深くでドリブルを仕掛け、左足でクロスを送る。しかし、ボールは逆サイドまで流れてしまう

Ｃ大阪　新井が再び左サイドの相手陣深くでボールを持つ。しかし、２人の相手ＤＦに対応されてしまい、クロスは上げられず

神戸　２２佐々木ＯＵＴ→２飯野ＩＮ

神戸　大迫がペナルティエリア手前の右からペナルティエリア中央に浮き球を供給。武藤が胸で受けるが、相手ＤＦの寄せに遭ってシュートは打てない

神戸　酒井が右サイドの相手陣深くにふわりとした浮き球を供給。飯野が反応するが、追い付けずにボールは直接ゴールラインを割ってしまう

神戸　飯野が鳥海に倒されて右サイドの相手陣深くでＦＫを獲得する

Ｃ大阪　鳥海にイエローカード

神戸　キッカーの初瀬が左足でクロスを送ると、ニアサイドでＪパトリッキが頭で合わせる。しかし、シュートは枠はとらえられない

神戸　大迫が右サイドの相手陣深くから左足でクロスを送るが、相手ＤＦにブロックされてしまう

Ｃ大阪　進藤が左サイドの相手陣中央に右足でロングパスを送る。しかし、球足が長くなってしまい、ボールは直接タッチラインを割ってしまう

アディショナルタイムは５分の表示

Ｃ大阪　毎熊が相手ＤＦに倒されて右サイドの相手陣中央でＦＫを獲得する

Ｃ大阪　キッカーの香川が右足で浮き球を供給すると、ボールがペナルティエリア中央にこぼれる。味方が後方に落とし、ペナルティエリア手前の左から新井がフリーの状態で右足のシュートを放つ。しかし、大きく枠を外れてしまう

Ｃ大阪　香川がペナルティエリア手前の右に浮き球のパスを送る。進藤が受けるが、うまくコントロールできず、ボールを奪われてしまう

Ｃ大阪　毎熊が右サイドの相手陣中央から右足で浮き球を供給。進藤が合わせに行くが、その前に酒井にクリアされ、酒井に対するファウルを取られてしまう

Ｃ大阪　進藤にイエローカード

神戸　１１武藤ＯＵＴ→３ＭトゥーレルＩＮ

<h3 id="h0604d2dd81">Kobe's Aggressive Defense Stifles Offense, Leading to Frustrating Loss and 10-Point Gap with League Leaders</h3><img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/8d921f65a2f14f72b0b032170159407c/230924_01.jpg" alt=""> Six days after suffering a 0-1 defeat to Kashima Antlers, Cerezo Osaka once again took to the away field to face league leaders Vissel Kobe in the 28th round of the Meiji Yasuda Life J1 League. The gap in points between both teams was seven, and in order to slightly widen the possibility of a come-from-behind championship, this round became a must-win match where only three points were sought. There was one change in the starting lineup from the previous round. Sota Kitano made his first league start since the opening match, partnering with Leo Ceará in the front two. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/39c131afd9874c99b0f7db55587e26cc/230924_02.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/170b1c98be594927a2d4ecea9efef1cc/230924_03.jpg" alt=""> In the early stages, both teams increasingly resorted to long balls, aiming for the goal from the sides while avoiding risks. Cerezo's first chance came in the 15th minute when Sota Kitano collected a kick from goalkeeper Yang Han Been and initiated an attack from the left side, resulting in a corner kick after a move involving Shinji Kagawa. In the 17th minute, a combination play involving Hinata Kida, Kagawa, and Capixaba led to a cross from Kakeru Funaki on the right flank, but Jordy Croux's attempt to jump in for a header on the far side was thwarted by a defender, and he couldn't take the shot. With both teams swiftly transitioning between offense and defense, the tension remained high as a momentary lapse could prove costly. In the 20th minute, after losing the ball on the left side of their own half, Cerezo allowed Kobe to launch a counter-attack. Eventually, Yuya Osako took a shot, but it sailed over the crossbar. In the 32nd minute, Cerezo threatened from a Kagawa corner, with Seiya Makimura attempting a close-range header, only to be denied by the opposing defender.&nbsp;Throughout the match, Cerezo struggled to advance the ball forward. Even when they managed to break through the opponent's press, Kobe's quick recovery and defensive efforts on the flanks prevented them from accelerating, resulting in a first half where they couldn't create clear-cut scoring opportunities. Nevertheless, they held their own in the battle for second balls, making it a nearly even contest in terms of overall performance. The outcome remained undecided as the match headed into the second half. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/cf0b0def6ef24f7281f197ec98e0c9ea/230924_04.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/96ea4eecf6194b6ebf98a70b91d37dcc/230924_05.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/639a378f46d44c08916f97a8584ebfa5/230924_06.jpg" alt=""> In the second half, Cerezo sought to increase their offensive intensity, but they found themselves repeatedly creating scoring opportunities for Kobe, who were stepping up their offensive efforts. In the 55th minute, Yuya Osako received a cross from Gotoku Sakai on the far side and unleashed a shot from a one-touch effort. Just a minute later, Osako was again involved, providing the setup for Yoshinori Mutō's chance after a vertical pass. However, in the somewhat delayed 59th minute, Cerezo conceded a goal. Leo Ceará, who received a long pass from goalkeeper Yang Han Been in the forward position, was targeted by Jordy Croux. Kobe managed to steal the ball, and with a single pass, they breached the high defensive line, leaving Ryosuke Shindo with no time to recover. This allowed Daiju Sasaki to score. Immediately in the 60th minute, Cerezo substituted Kitano and Kida with Satoki Uejo and Hiroaki Okuno. Okuno made his first appearance in 11 games since the J1 Round 17 match against Kobe. With Okuno taking the ball forward and contributing to an activated attack, the manager Akio Kogiku further utilized substitutions with Masaya Shibayama in the 65th minute and Haruki Arai in the 74th minute. Trying to equalize, Cerezo made proactive changes, and in the 75th minute, they came close to a scoring opportunity as Koji Toriumi, Kakeru Funaki, and Hiroaki Okuno combined, with Ryo Watanabe almost getting a clear chance, but his shot was blocked by a defender. In the 77th minute, Masaya Shibayama took a cut-in shot from Kagawa's side change, but this time, it was saved by the goalkeeper, denying Cerezo a goal. They entered the late stages of the match still trailing by one goal. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/fcad4fa6ab984a518d99ee6c66dedf56/230924_07.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/db55bcdd5ff14764bf7a654037a66003/230924_09.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/f10c47e4adc3432c926fc602ecbe158b/230924_08.jpg" alt=""> After taking the lead, Cerezo faced increased defensive pressure from Kobe, who pressed higher up the pitch. Cerezo did concede a few counterattacks from their own passing errors, but they managed to avoid allowing a decisive second goal. Nevertheless, in this match, they couldn't create clear-cut scoring opportunities throughout, and the final whistle blew. While the first half saw an evenly matched contest, as time went on, Cerezo found themselves on the back foot in the battle for second balls, and Kobe ultimately dominated. This top-of-the-table clash was approached with the aim of securing a vital victory, but in the end, they were comprehensively beaten in both attack and defense. The point gap with the league leaders has widened to 10, and considering there are only six matches remaining, the possibility of a come-from-behind championship has realistically become slim. However, as long as there's a chance, they will continue to fight until the end and also work toward their other goal of securing a spot in the "Top 3." In the next match, they will return home to face Shonan Bellmare, aiming for their first win in three games.

Review: Vissel Kobe 1-0 Cerezo Osaka (J1 MD28)

<h3 id="ha169110b43">Early Concession and Inability to Capitalize on Numerical Advantage in Frustrating Top Match</h3><img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/fc0741a739f7401cb4522dc3f4fee9e4/9.16-1.jpg" alt=""> After a break for international duty following the previous match against Kawasaki Frontale, the J1 League resumed with Cerezo Osaka facing Kashima Antlers in the 27th round of the Meiji Yasuda J1 League. The starting lineup remained the same as the previous match, and Seiya Maikuma, returning from Japan national team duty, was also included. Cerezo had a promising start, maintaining possession of the ball. Maikuma made chances by narrowing the field from the right side, while Capixaba and Kakeru Funaki connected with crosses from the left side, utilizing both flanks to search for goal opportunities. However, in the 13th minute, an unexpected goal was conceded. Yuma Suzuki intercepted a pass from Shindo, which was intended for Hinata Kida during the build-up in their own half, and he subsequently found the net in a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper. It was a painful goal to concede for Cerezo, who wanted to persistently continue the game. Nonetheless, they switched their mindset to chase a goal.&nbsp;In the 25th minute, Diego Pituca of Kashima was shown a straight red card for a significantly improper play, resulting in his ejection. As the Kashima bench vehemently protested the referee's decision, Kashima's head coach, Daiki Iwamasa, received a warning, and one staff member was also sent off. This led to chaos in the entire stadium, including home supporters. Unfortunately, Cerezo's players also struggled to maintain composure amidst the commotion. In the first half, Cerezo found it challenging to increase the passing speed effectively against the opponent's block and failed to capitalize on the numerical advantage as time passed. They couldn't create clear-cut opportunities and ended the first half trailing by one goal. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/53d23381935a41af9b0ac0506508644c/9.16-5.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/a35e0691d59f4beaa6416d87be90b1ea/9.16-14.jpg" alt=""> In the second half, determined to equalize, both sides pushed high up the field from the start. In the 46th minute, Jordy Croux headed a cross from Capixaba from the opposite side. Creating the first clear chance of the match, they quickly followed it up in the 47th minute, breaking through the center this time. Leo Ceara controlled Kida's pass from Kida's vertical pass, and Satoki Uejo, who broke free from the defense, shot from behind the defenders. With a varied use of the inside and outside, an increased passing tempo, they continued to press Kashima back into their own half in the second half. Even against Kashima's occasional counterattacks, they didn't concede a second goal, thanks to goalkeeper Yang Han Been's excellent saves and the calm response of the defenders. In the 69th minute, Maikuma, taking advantage of Kagawa's pass from the right side, crossed from behind. Ryo Watanabe, who came on as a substitute, met the cross, but his shot went over the crossbar. In the following 74th minute, another clear chance came. Once again initiated by Kagawa, he sent a perfectly floated pass to the left side's back. Runaway Funaki crossed the ball, and Leo Ceara met it far post, but his favored header narrowly missed the target. In the 81st minute, Haruki Arai came on and created a good opportunity with a daring breakthrough from the left side. Towards the end, they had more set-piece opportunities, but that elusive goal remained out of reach. In the final play, Capixaba's header from Kagawa's free-kick found Koji Toriumi, who headed it in, but it was cleared off the line by the defenders. Unable to recover from the early conceded goal in the first half, the match ended with a 0-1 score. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/f46689f654b14300a93e9237dcaed7d5/9.16-4.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/c6fe05fdbb1748f9b4711ebf41146ced/9.16-7.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/74c3073068464a0ea244a7ce610720a8/9.16-11.jpg" alt=""> In their pursuit of a higher position, they desperately sought three points in this crucial matchup. However, once again, they fell short against their arch-rivals, Kashima, failing to extend their points and slipping to sixth place in the standings. Nevertheless, this round saw the league leaders, Vissel Kobe, suffer a defeat, while second-placed Yokohama F. Marinos settled for a draw. Fortunately, the gap in points with the top two teams did not widen significantly. In the next round, they will face Vissel Kobe directly on their turf. After the match, head coach Akio Kogiku stated, "There is not a single player here who will give up. We want to finish the last seven matches with all wins and strive for the championship." Sota Kitano, who scored the dramatic winning goal at home in their previous encounter against Kobe, also looked ahead optimistically, saying, "I think we're being tested. In a good way, I want to enjoy this situation." The frustration they felt in the match can only be redeemed on the pitch. The upcoming match will be a pivotal showdown that could determine the course of this season. They aim to paint their opponent's territory pink and strive for a victory, riding the updraft once again.

Review: Kashima Antlers 1-0 Cerezo Osaka (J1 MD27)

<h3 id="hdc6126207f">Second Three-Game Winning Streak of the Season Propels Team to Fourth Place; Leo Ceara Shines with Two Goals, and Ryo Watanabe Scores His First J1 Goal</h3><img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/4cee503ea1c04544af029221b5d4eb4b/0902_01.jpg" alt=""> Six days after winning the top clash against Nagoya Grampus, Cerezo Osaka faced Kawasaki Frontale in the Meiji Yasuda Life J1 League Matchday 26 at Home Yodoko Sakura Stadium. One change was made to the starting lineup from the Nagoya match, with Koji Toriumi returning and slotting into the CB position. On the bench, Hiroaki Okuno returned for the first time since Matchday 17 against Vissel Kobe. In the 5th minute, Cerezo had a chance, but Satoki Uejo's shot from Seiya Maikuma's cross, set up by Shinji Kagawa's pass, narrowly missed the target. Just 3 minutes later, Cerezo faced a scare as they lost possession in their own half, but Leandro Damiao's shot was saved by GK Yang Han Been. Cerezo initially took control of the game through aggressive pressing, forcing mistakes from their opponents. However, as they couldn't capitalize on this early dominance, the game gradually shifted in Kawasaki's favor. Kawasaki, playing with a heavily rotated squad due to a tight schedule, including the Emperor's Cup quarter-finals just two days prior, approached the match with a flexible system – 3-5-2 in attack and 5-3-2 in defense. Cerezo struggled to make their side attacks work effectively, leading to more balls played behind the defense, but they couldn't create clear-cut chances. In contrast, Kawasaki had opportunities in the 19th and 29th minutes, with the former being saved brilliantly by Yang Han been and the latter striking the crossbar. Reflecting on the first half, Kagawa mentioned, 'We couldn't adapt well to the way the opponent played, and the first half ended that way. However, I think the key today was that we kept the first half scoreless.' Ultimately, heading into the second half with a 0-0 scoreline would prove significant. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/2b6ba5f81a6f45ba82aeeb2426691846/0902_03.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/a6f54687987a438ab14c68edec4da761/0902_02.jpg" alt=""> As the second half began, Cerezo shared positioning for their full-backs and the involvement of their defensive midfielder," said Coach Akio Kogiku. Cerezo started to push higher with their full-backs on both sides compared to the first half. In the 47th minute, following a switch of play by Kakeru Funaki, Jordy Croux, Maikuma, and Croux linked up with passes, and eventually, Leo Ceara received Croux's grounded cross, unleashing a right-footed shot, but it hit the post. However, just five minutes later, Cerezo broke the deadlock, once again exploiting the right side. Kagawa and Maikuma's pass exchange lured out the opponent, and Hinata Kida received Maikuma's vertical pass, shifting to the right side via Kagawa. A cross from Croux with his left foot led to Ceara competing near the goal, resulting in an own goal by the opponent's defender. Capixaba, who had been subdued by the opponent in the first half, came alive in the second half. He repeatedly broke through vertically, creating moments where the goal was just inches away. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/88cda56c605e4100b0cecbd981b4528b/0902_05.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/9cc81fb87e054efc896a0fdd9ddf4267/0902_06.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/23e1b33822c24822bc862132d9a50bf4/0902_07.jpg" alt=""> However, in the 60th minute, right after a scene that seemed like Capixaba was brought down inside the opponent's penalty area, Cerezo found themselves in a precarious situation on Kawasaki's counter-attack. This is where Toriumi displayed excellent coverage. He tenaciously sprinted alongside Shin Yamada, who had broken free from Damiao's post-play, and finally threw his body in to block the shot. It was a big play that prevented what looked like a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper. Then, in the 66th minute, Croux's cross induced a handball from the opponent's defender, resulting in a penalty kick for Cerezo. Ceara calmly converted it, extending Cerezo's lead to two goals. Right after, Kawasaki made four simultaneous substitutions to revert to a 4-3-3 system, prompting Cerezo to also make a change in the 84th minute, bringing in Matej Jonjic and shifting to a 5-4-1 formation. They fortified their defense and sought a third goal on the counter. In the 87th minute, Cerezo secured their third goal following a play by Haruki Arai and Ryo Watanabe. In the 90+2nd minute, Arai broke through the left side and won a penalty, which Watanabe confidently converted, sealing the victory. It was a joyful moment for Watanabe, marking his first-ever J1 goal. He expressed his happiness, saying, "Scoring my first goal for Cerezo at home means a lot to me," while pledging to continue his growth: "I want to build on this and improve even more. Scoring goals motivates me to keep refining my skills and compete every day." The match ended with Cerezo winning 3-0, securing another three-goal victory following the previous match, and they kept a clean sheet this time. With two consecutive games seeing substitute players scoring goals, the team has entered a positive cycle. The league will now have a two-week break due to the international break before the next match against Kashima. Coach Kogiku stated, "We want to keep improving until the next match against Kashima. We want to have healthy competition from our training." Furthermore, after this match, the supporters in the stands celebrated Maikuma, who was called up to the Japan national team, offering their support. Maikuma said, "I feel more motivated now. I want to switch my focus to the national team and give my best." He will have the opportunity to make his debut for the national team during the upcoming European tour, which includes matches against Germany and Turkey. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/3944c899f06449eeaecbfe3a3b40cefd/0902_08.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/3ebd469428d34b008b334f5408c7a0e2/0902_09.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/79cb8338451145fbbbfd30532a7652ef/0902_10.jpg" alt="">

Review: Cerezo Osaka 3-0 Kawasaki Frontale (J1 MD26)

Cerezo Osaka announce that Osaka University of Health and Sport Sciences forward Kengo Furuyama has agreed to join the club for the 2025 season. He will also be registered as a JFA/J.League Special License Player and will be available to play for the club this season, wearing the number 47. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/b3b03196ae894aeab2b7ff5d0677b56a/player_banner2_furuyama.jpg" alt=""> <h3 id="hf9070a5ba3">Comments</h3>"I am Kengo Furuyama from Osaka University of Health and Sport Sciences, and I will be joining Cerezo Osaka for the 2025 season. I have been supported by so many people in my career, and I am very grateful to everyone who has been involved with me. I am also very happy to start my professional career with this club, as I am from Higashi Sumiyoshi Ward and have been watching games at Nagai since I was a child. I will fight with passion and dedication so that I can show many "KenGoals" to all the supporters." <h3 id="hee3eba2108">Profile</h3><h4 id="ha9c29754cc">Date of Birth</h4>July 11, 2002 <h4 id="h8b5fa66284">Place of Birth</h4>Osaka <h4 id="h11b1e8350c">Height / Weight</h4>178cm / 71kg<h4 id="h6ca73d845a"> Position</h4>Forward <h4 id="hbb49721568">Career</h4>IRIS Ikuno SS Rissho Shonan High School Osaka University of Health and Sport Sciences

Kengo Furuyama joins Cerezo Osaka for the 2025 season

<h3 id="h3baa52408e">Spectacular Double Goal by Satoki Uejo. Successful Away Revenge Narrows Gap to 3 Points Against 3rd Place Nagoya.</h3><img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/dacf124b7a5246e0b34c5b19a1c322b5/230826_01.JPG" alt=""> After securing victory in the previous match against Yokohama FC, ending a 3-game winless streak, Cerezo Osaka faced 3rd-place Nagoya Grampus at home with only 5 days of rest. They entered the 25th round of the Meiji Yasuda Life J1 League aiming for points. The point difference between the two teams was '6'. In their pursuit of the top three, this match was crucial for Cerezo to secure 3 points. There was one change in the starting lineup compared to the previous match. Koji Toriumi was replaced, and Matej Jonjic, who had not started since the 19th round against Avispa Fukuoka, returned to the starting lineup as part of the central defense. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/4682f2c13bec424b9cf7265a59f37777/230826_02.JPG" alt=""> Three minutes into the game, Cerezo Osaka's defense was breached by Nagoya's long ball, and the net was shaken early on. However, after a VAR review, the goal was ruled offside, saving Cerezo from conceding. Then, in the 9th minute, they managed to take the lead. Seiya Maikuma delivered a long ball to the side, and Leo Ceará ran in to provide a direct cross into the middle. Satoki Uejo met the ball with his left foot, accurately guiding it into the goal. Nevertheless, the lead was short-lived. Right after the kickoff, Nagoya connected passes and breached Cerezo's defense on the left side. The final pass came from Morishima Tsukasa, and Morishita Ryoya, arriving from the far side, netted the equalizer. The pattern of conceding soon after taking the lead was similar to their previous encounter with Nagoya, but this time, they demonstrated resilience from this point onward. Shinji Kagawa, who later stated, 'We couldn't afford to repeat the same mistakes,' calmed his teammates and took control of the ball in the midfield. Manager Akio Kogiku emphasized that they learned from the previous game and didn't allow themselves to fall into the same patterns. In the 30th minute, there was another close call from the left side, but Ryosuke Shindo extended his leg to clear the cross. Although Cerezo had to contend with Nagoya's attacking wing-backs, they prevented a turnaround and reached halftime at 1-1. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/a459cbb083b44aa3b974e9411f917626/230826_03.JPG" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/3c94d9e4e9204593b4f18edab309bdfa/230826_04.JPG" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/84ba1accfa66499ba5704f2667b9865a/230826_05.JPG" alt=""> As the first half concluded with Cerezo pushing back, the second half saw them take control of the ball and penetrate the opponent's territory from the start. In the 55th minute, Uejo broke free on the side but was deemed offside. Despite this, they effectively dismantled the left side and created a chance where Kagawa threatened the goal. The game, befitting a high-stakes clash, showcased tension and excitement with battles for the ball and rapid transitions. The focus now shifted towards the next pivotal goal. While the middle of the second half saw Nagoya pushing Cerezo back at times, in the 62nd and 68th minutes, goalkeeper Yan Han Been produced a series of crucial saves. Particularly, the latter shot had the power and accuracy to be a certain goal, yet the guardian of the net extended his right hand to deny it. Riding this momentum, Cerezo succeeded in taking the lead in the 71st minute. Starting with a deep throw-in from the right side, Maikuma, Leo Ceará, Jordy Croux, and Maikuma linked up, with the final pass provided by Kida Hinata, who showcased active distribution throughout the match. Uejo, positioned in the forward line, received a vertical pass despite carrying an opponent's defender on his back. Number 7 skillfully turned and unleashed a powerful left-footed strike that flew into the net with an unstoppable trajectory, even for the accomplished goalkeeper Langerak. Uejo scored his first multi-goal game since joining. Reflecting on the match, he said, 'I wanted to meet the expectations of the coach who trusted me. Winning with my goal in a high-stakes match gives me confidence.' <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/c41db013634d4bdb807c4fc46b9a2de4/230826_06.JPG" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/0825199362ef4e7599229e31daeeed11/230826_08.JPG" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/5db8d417202540039829b27ea2b4d35a/230826_11.JPG" alt=""> In the 80th minute, Manager Kogiku introduced Ryuya Nishio and Sota Kitano, shifting to a 5-back formation. While protecting the lead, they aimed for a third goal from counter-attacks. In the 82nd minute, Haruki Arai came on, followed by Ryo Watanabe in the 86th minute, and Tokuma Suzuki, as they fully utilized their substitutions in the closing stages. Cerezo secured their decisive third goal. Nishio intercepted a loose ball in an advanced position and passed to Watanabe, who cut inside and delivered a through pass. Kitano, who had a positive impression of their training together, mentioned, 'I had a good image of that moment from our practice sessions. Our eyes met at that instant.' Kitano broke free, evaded an opponent's center-back, and executed a shot. He scored his second J1 goal, in line with his envisioned scenario. The match concluded with Cerezo winning 3-1. In a complete reversal of the score from their previous away encounter, they managed to turn the tables. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/26fc20d7997e42a58955c21faa1e5384/230826_13.JPG" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/a69b970f215f43f58e9debcdad2a5e9d/230826_10.JPG" alt=""> Mental resilience throughout the match, utilizing both the flanks and the center for the attack. Reflecting on the top-tier clash that ended in victory, Manager Kogiku expressed, 'I'm very pleased that what we've been working on for about three months is manifested in our performance. The growth is the most rewarding.' With this win, the gap against 3rd-place Nagoya has been reduced to 3 points, and the pursuit is becoming clearer. Uejo, who scored the crucial two goals, stated, 'The next step is crucial. We want to keep it going.' In the next fixture, they will face Kawasaki Frontale at home once again. 'The final match before the international break. We want to make sure we win,' said Kagawa. The team aims to continue the good preparations collectively. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/c8936239770d454695c3ed39ca9a1ab3/230826_12.JPG" alt="">

Review: Cerezo Osaka 3-1 Nagoya Grampus (J1 MD25)

<h3 id="hc58c6238bf">Seizing Opportunities While Prioritizing Risk Management: Leo Ceará's Decisive Goal Secures First Victory in 3 League Matches</h3><img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/2603c4649fea4865b46fa86ba482cd58/8.20-1.jpg" alt=""> Facing Yokohama FC in the 24th round of the Meiji Yasuda Life J1 League, Cerezo Osaka took the field again seven days after their previous match against Kashiwa Reysol. Starting with the same eleven players as the previous match, Cerezo aimed for victory in this league match, hoping to break the streak of three winless games. From the start, Cerezo faced some attacking moments from Yokohama FC, but in the 6th minute, Seiya Maikuma returned to cover a tight situation. In the 9th minute, goalkeeper Yan Han Been caught a shot. Breaking away from the unpleasant trend of conceding early goals, as they did in the 8th minute of the match before and the 4th minute of the previous match, Cerezo gained control after the 10-minute mark. Centered around the midfield duo of Shinji Kagawa and Hinata Kida, they began to increase their ball possession, distributing passes to both sides. Seizing opportunities whenever they arose, they played vertical passes. In the 22nd minute, the first big chance of the match came. Leo Ceará picked up a loose back pass from the opponent, carried the ball vertically, and delivered a low cross. Kagawa, Capixaba, and Jordy Croux all came close to scoring. In the 23rd minute, Kagawa, Croux, and Maikuma combined on the right side to break through, with Maekawa delivering a cross that Leo Ceará headed towards the goal. In the 29th minute, Croux and Maikuma linked up again on the right side, creating opportunities with middle-range shots from Kida and Croux, threatening the goal in quick succession. In the 36th minute, Capixaba received Kida's pass at the center and attempted a shot after dribbling. The shot narrowly missed the target, but it was an audacious attempt. After the early stages, Cerezo continued to create chances from the right side through Kagawa, not giving Yokohama FC any counterattack opportunities and consistently winning second balls. Despite their efforts, the first half ended 0-0 without either team scoring. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/7f84121efd484614a0a6d92a2b6e8bc1/8.20-2.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/9de091e2e0e44c11972ab932a645780f/8.20-3.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/b22efbe8dc194a57ad7dc008fbc46516/8.20-4.jpg" alt=""> The first half saw a solid performance, with a focus on risk management in defense while maintaining possession and seeking goals. However, the team aimed to step up another gear in the second half, especially in their pursuit of taking the lead. Early in the second half, Croux broke through the right side consecutively to create opportunities. In the 49th minute, the much-awaited moment arrived. Starting from Kagawa, Maikuma cut inside, maneuvering the opponent, and received an accurate side-switching pass from Kagawa. Capixaba received the pass and elegantly crossed the ball, evading his opponent, creating space. Upam Satoki Uejo and Maikuma drew the attention of the opponent's defenders near the goal line, leaving Leo Ceará unmarked in the far post. He delivered a powerful header, securing the long-awaited lead after three games. The Cerezo Eleven erupted in jubilation. The team continued to push for a second goal, maintaining their attacking momentum. In the 54th minute, Leo Ceará attempted a headed shot from Maikuma's cross. In the 61st minute, a great opportunity emerged from a short counterattack. Capixaba dribbled and provided a final pass to Leo Ceará, who was in a promising position, but his shot was blocked by the goalkeeper. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/07cc148cf85545b8ad18eb286ed4a23a/8.20-5.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/b12232cae8fe4b2bbd45664339f7d1da/8.20-6.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/0fd9abb8aa354b56b09bb9f451ecfbaf/8.20-7.jpg" alt=""> In the 62nd minute, Yokohama FC made two substitutions, gradually gaining more possession of the ball. In the 66th and 67th minutes, they created dangerous situations from their own left side. In the 69th minute, Manager Kogiku made a change, bringing in Suzuki Tokuma and Shibayama Masaya. He shifted the formation to a 4-5-1, aiming to 'create a solid block with five players in midfield and eliminate the space in the box,' as stated by Manager Kogiku. In the 77th minute, Yokohama FC made another substitution, shifting to a two-striker front line to increase the pressure up front. In the 79th minute, Manager Kogiku made further adjustments by introducing Matej Jonjic and Watanabe Ryo, transitioning the system to a five-back formation. This change was aimed at not only handling crosses but also shifting from ball-winning defense to goal-protecting defense. In the 89th minute, Shibayama carried the ball in a counter-attack situation, creating a threatening scene near the goal. However, during the later stages of the second half, in additional time, when Yokohama FC advanced deep on the side, Jonjic provided cover. This defensive adjustment proved effective in solidifying their defense. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/d6afda4e27a84da08f36867a9cf1bff7/8.20-8.jpg" alt=""> <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/561d41f492bf4308b187febddecc3451/8.20-9.jpg" alt=""> The match ended 1-0 as it stood. In a crucial game to enter the top three, 'Three points were a must' (Manager Kogiku), and Cerezo Osaka brilliantly secured victory in the J1 League after three winless matches. 'If we had scored a second goal, the game would have been sealed. We had opportunities, but our precision is an area to improve' (Kagawa). 'Towards the end when we were pushed back, I felt that we need to enhance the defensive intensity as a team' (Maekawa). While acknowledging their challenges, the players utilized their substitution options fully and successfully reduced the point gap against third-placed Nagoya Grampus. The upcoming match is a pivotal one, as they face Nagoya Grampus at home, a six-pointer match. 'From here on, in the last ten matches, we aim for the top three, and once we're there, we'll aim for the championship. We want to prepare for the significant match against Nagoya with everyone's effort,' said Manager Kogiku. Building upon the gains and lessons from this match, they strive for further improvement. <img src="https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/cc125679249b4055b70b8d540ec6636a/e5cdc130691a4420b88eab6013a1d69b/8.20-10.jpg" alt="">

NEWS

Review: Vissel Kobe 1-0 Cerezo Osaka (J1 MD28)

Review: Kashima Antlers 1-0 Cerezo Osaka (J1 MD27)

Review: Cerezo Osaka 3-0 Kawasaki Frontale (J1 MD26)

Kengo Furuyama joins Cerezo Osaka for the 2025 season

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PICK UP PLAYERS

Masaya SHIBAYAMA

Ryo WATANABE

Shinji KAGAWA

Seiya MAIKUMA

Koji TORIUMI

Sota KITANO

YANG Han Been

Kakeru FUNAKI