In a thrilling encounter on March 26, 2025, Kataller Toyama triumphed over JEF United Chiba with a score of 4-2 in the first leg of the J.League Cup 1st Round, held at the Toyama Prefectural General Sports Park Athletics Stadium. This victory not only advanced Toyama to the second round but also marked Chiba's first loss of the season, eliminating them from the tournament.
The home team, Toyama, made a bold move by changing nine starters from their recent J2 League match against Zweigen Kanazawa, where they suffered a disappointing 0-1 defeat. In contrast, Chiba, who had been riding high with six consecutive wins and sitting atop the J2 standings, opted to replace all their starters from their previous match against Ventforet Kofu, which they won 2-1.
Both teams had previously faced each other in the J2 League, where Chiba had secured a 2-0 victory at home. However, the tables turned early in this cup match. Toyama struck first in the 5th minute when Yuto Suematsu scored, assisted by Naoki Inoue, putting them ahead 1-0. The early goal was a testament to Toyama's determination to avenge their earlier league defeat.
Chiba responded quickly, leveling the score in the 15th minute. Hiroto Tabuchi delivered a stunning jumping volley, assisted by Naohiro Sugiyama, which brought the match to a 1-1 standstill. But Toyama was not to be outdone, as Masaki Hashiguchi put them back in the lead just seven minutes later, scoring in the 22nd minute after a cross from Daiki Matsuoka was deflected by Tsubasa Yoshihira, making it 2-1.
The second half saw Toyama extending their lead further. Hashiguchi scored again in the 52nd minute, capitalizing on a counterattack to make it 3-1. Chiba managed to narrow the gap in the 62nd minute when Takayuki Mae scored from a corner kick, bringing the score to 3-2. However, just when it seemed Chiba might stage a comeback, Hashiguchi struck again in the 66th minute, scoring his third goal of the match and completing a hat trick, which restored Toyama's lead to 4-2.
Despite a valiant effort from Chiba, which included a series of substitutions aiming to turn the tide, Toyama held firm. The match concluded with Toyama securing a decisive victory, thus advancing to the second round where they will face Nagoya Grampus from J1.
Throughout the match, Toyama demonstrated superior offensive prowess, recording 13 shots compared to Chiba's 4. The home team also had a slight edge in set pieces, with 3 corner kicks against Chiba's 7. Both teams faced disciplinary actions, with Toyama receiving 1 yellow card and Chiba also receiving 1 yellow card.
The match was officiated by referee Motohiro Inukai, with assistant referees Akinori Sakamoto and Yuta Uchiyama. The 4th official was Tatsumi Sakai. The attendance for this exciting cup match was recorded at 3,208 spectators, who were treated to a clear evening with a temperature of 11.6 degrees Celsius and 89% humidity, coupled with a moderate wind.
This victory is particularly significant for Toyama, who not only avenged their earlier defeat to Chiba but also showcased their resilience and adaptability by making substantial changes to their lineup. The team's coach, Michiharu Odagiri, dressed in a suit for this match, as opposed to his usual jersey, signified the importance of the cup match and the expectations placed upon the team.
As the dust settles on this first leg, Toyama's players and fans can look forward to their next challenge against Nagoya Grampus, with hopes of continuing their strong performance in the tournament. For Chiba, this defeat serves as a wake-up call, reminding them that even the strongest teams can falter, and they will need to regroup quickly to maintain their position in the league.
As the J.League Cup progresses, the excitement surrounding the matches only intensifies, with teams vying for glory and a chance to lift the coveted trophy. The next round promises to bring more thrilling encounters as clubs from across Japan compete at the highest level.
