Sanfrecce Hiroshima's ambitions to advance to the semi-finals of the ACL2 were dashed as they were eliminated by Lion City Sailors with an aggregate score of 1-4 on March 12, 2025. The second leg of the quarter-finals ended 1-1, and the overall disappointment stemmed from the first leg where Hiroshima's extensive 6-1 victory was overturned to a 0-3 loss due to the unauthorized use of player Valere Germain, who was under suspension.
The team faced their formidable opponent, Lion City Sailors, under challenging conditions characterized by high heat and humidity on synthetic turf. The match did not start well for Hiroshima as they quickly found themselves at a disadvantage, allowing Lion City to score first with Renaldo Teo finding the net in the 20th minute, leaving Hiroshima needing to win by at least four goals to proceed.
Hiroshima rallied back when midfielder Yohtaro Nakajima scored from a stunning direct free kick at the 34-minute mark, leveling the match at 1-1 and narrowing the aggregate score to 1-4. This goal provided temporary hope, but the situation quickly worsened for Hiroshima when the team's Ryoya Germain received a red card barely 51 minutes in, reducing them to ten players and severely hampering their chances of mounting any successful comeback.
Hiroshima increased pressure throughout the game and made several attempts to seize the match. They even generated opportunities to score, with key chances coming from players like Nakajima and Kato reaching the box several times. Despite their efforts, the continued defensive strategy of Lion City and their own numerical disadvantage limited Hiroshima's scoring chances. Although they maintained possession and created situations, the team was unable to convert these attempts, resulting in the game ending tied at 1-1.
Reflecting on the events, Hiroshima coach Michael Skibbe expressed frustration over the team's inability to capitalize on their earlier successes and the unfortunate turn of events stemming from the first leg. The loss marked their exit from the tournament, which began with such promise after their authoritative victory over Nam Dinh FC earlier this year.
Despite the early setback and the potential for what might have been, Nakajima remained hopeful about the future, stating, "I regret losing this title, but there are still opportunities available to pursue, such as the J1 League." His comments echoed the sentiment of many within the club, who recognized the need to regroup and refocus on their domestic goals.
Hiroshima's path to the quarter-finals had included previous successes, such as finishing first in their group stage with five wins and one defeat. They dominated the round of 16, finishing their two-match series against Nam Dinh with a whopping 7-0 aggregate triumph before this tournament stumbled at the quarter-final stage due to administrative oversights and on-field misfortunes.
The agonizing nature of the elimination was exacerbated by the fact the team looked strong heading to the quarter-finals, securing impressive results throughout the tournament. Their hopes to become one of the top clubs in Asia dimmed with this defeat, but as the season progresses, they remain committed to bouncing back stronger.
Hiroshima's next focus will shift back to the J1 League and other domestic competitions, where they aim to improve their standings and demonstrate their capability as one of Japan's leading football clubs. Supporters are expected to rally behind them as they navigate the trials of the current season, seeking redemption after the heartache of the ACL2.