In the latest round of the J2 League, FC Imabari clinched a hard-fought victory against Iwaki, propelling themselves to a commendable fifth place in the standings. The match, held on March 23, 2025, saw the Imabari team display relentless determination, managing 18 shots and 15 corner kicks over the course of the game.
FC Imabari, who had previously secured a solid position with six matches played, entered the field with aspirations to maintain their momentum. The game's decisive moment came in the 37th minute of the second half. Following a high-speed cross from Umeki, an unfortunate error by Iwaki's goalkeeper allowed Imabari to break the deadlock and eventually seize control of the match.
This victory marked a significant turnaround for FC Imabari, who had only recently struggled. With two matches since their last win, the team's resilience paid off as they pushed their league position upward.
Meanwhile, the situation was far less promising for rival club Ehime FC, who faced off against Sapporo in an equally charged encounter but ended in disappointment. Despite an encouraging start, the team remained in the basement of the standings following a 2-1 defeat.
Ehime FC's match began on a positive note when Moriyama scored in the 9th minute — a remarkable moment as it marked his first-ever goal in the J-League. However, this early lead was quickly threatened when Sapporo's Bakayoko equalized in the 36th minute. With only moments to spare, Sapporo pressed on and delivered a winning blow in the final minutes of the game, sealing a heartbreaking defeat for Ehime FC.
The loss means that Ehime FC remains without a win this season, further complicating their efforts to break out of the relegation zone. They will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next match against Oita, where they are desperate to secure their first win and lift themselves from the bottom of the table.
This round of matches in the J2 League showcases the fierce competition among the teams, with FC Imabari celebrating their ascent while Ehime FC continues to grapple with their daunting challenges. As the season progresses, both clubs will need to adapt and strategize, seeking the victories required to meet their ambitions.
