The 2025 J-League YBC Levain Cup 1st Round 2nd leg matches unfolded on April 16, 2025, featuring intense competition as several teams vied for a spot in the next round. Among the highlights was the impressive performance of Kataller Toyama, who managed to pull off a stunning upset against the reigning champions, Nagoya Grampus.
At the Toyama Prefectural General Sports Park Athletics Stadium, Toyama faced off against Nagoya in a match that began with both teams displaying solid defensive strategies. The first half ended in a goalless draw, with neither side able to break through the other's defense. The tension built as both teams entered the second half, eager to find the back of the net.
In the 94th minute of the match, Gamba Osaka edged out Mito HollyHock with a late goal from Fan Ararão, securing a 1-0 victory. Meanwhile, in other matches, Yokohama FC triumphed over Giravanz Kitakyushu with a score of 2-1, thanks to an own goal and a strike from Naoki Tsubaki.
As the match between Toyama and Nagoya progressed into extra time, the action finally heated up. In the 99th minute, Takeshi Muro scored a spectacular diving header, putting Toyama ahead 1-0. However, just two minutes later, Nagoya's Mateus Castro responded with a powerful left-footed shot from outside the penalty area, leveling the score at 1-1.
With the match tied after 120 minutes, it moved to a penalty shootout, where Toyama emerged victorious, winning 6-5. This remarkable achievement not only secured Toyama's advancement to the next round but also marked a significant moment for the team, who had previously reached the playoffs while in J3 last season.
In another thrilling encounter, FC Tokyo faced off against RB Omiya Ardija at home, where FC Tokyo's Marcelo Ryan shone brightly. After a scoreless first half, Ryan opened the scoring in the 56th minute, and despite Omiya's Kenyu Sugimoto equalizing in the 82nd minute, Ryan went on to score two more goals, completing a hat trick and sealing a 3-1 victory for FC Tokyo.
Meanwhile, Kashiwa Reysol had a nail-biting match against Fukushima United FC, where they ultimately claimed a 3-2 win. Reysol's Diego, Kaito Hijiri, and Rio Watari found the net, while Fukushima's Kota Yazawa managed to score twice, showcasing the competitive spirit of both teams.
Yokohama FC's victory over Giravanz Kitakyushu was marked by a strong start, with Tsubaki scoring in the 11th minute, followed by an own goal that doubled their lead. Kitakyushu's Wataru Nomoto managed to score a penalty in the 53rd minute, but it was not enough to turn the tide.
In the match between Cerezo Osaka and FC Imabari, the scoring was relentless. Cerezo took an early lead with goals from Vitor Bueno and Jhonathan, but Imabari quickly equalized and even took the lead before Cerezo fought back to win 4-3 after extra time.
In the final match of the day, Avispa Fukuoka, who currently leads J1, faced Tochigi SC. Fukuoka took an early lead with a goal from Goshi Sato in the 4th minute, but Tochigi's Kazuma Ueyama equalized in the 71st minute. However, Fukuoka regained control with a late goal from Kazuki Nagasawa, securing a 2-1 win.
As the tournament progresses, Toyama's next challenge will be against Avispa Fukuoka in the third round on May 21, 2025. This matchup promises to be an exciting clash as both teams aim for glory in the Levain Cup.
