Kataller Toyama marked a historic day on March 9, 2025, by defeating the former J1 team, Jubilo Iwata, with a score of 3-1 at the Toyama Athletic Recreation Park stadium. This victory not only secured three points for the team but also highlighted their resurgence after 11 years away from J2, bringing their season record to three wins and one loss.
From the start, tension filled the stadium as fans of Kataller Toyama hoped for their team to deliver another strong performance. Early defensive pressure from Kataller forced Jubilo Iwata to falter, and it was Kataller’s forward Riki Matsuda who seized the moment. At the 33rd minute, Matsuda advanced with determination, sending the ball past Jubilo's goalkeeper to net the first goal of the match, giving his team the lead at 1-0 going to halftime. His calm composure under pressure earned him applause from the roaring home crowd.
The second half began with renewed hope for the visitors as Jubilo Iwata equalized at the 26th minute. Yet, Kataller bounced back quickly with resiliency. Masato Iwai, stepping onto the pitch as a substitute, showcased his skills as he dribbled through defenders, scoring the second goal just minutes later and reclaiming the lead at 2-1.
Kataller's team, riding high on their newfound momentum, was not done yet. Just ten minutes later, at the 36th minute, defender Kyogo Kamiyama struck from a well-placed free kick, solidifying Kataller Toyama’s advantage with a third goal, stretching the score to 3-1. Jubilo Iwata struggled to respond, as the game concluded, securing Kataller's triumph.
The win also signified more than just points on the board; it helped Kataller reach the impressive milestone of 1 million cumulative attendance at home games over their J-League history, made even more special by the support of their loyal fans on this occasion.
Reflecting on the success, Kataller's coach lauded his team's commitment and the atmosphere generated by the fans, stating, "It was great to see our team's performance and the fans' support today." This sentiment resonates deeply as the club continues its ambitious push through the J2 league.
With this victory, Kataller Toyama climbs to third place on the league table, and their next challenge will be on March 16, 2025, when they face FC Imabari away. Expectations are now high, and the team aims to carry this momentum forward.