On May 6, 2025, the WE League made headlines as the match between JEF United Ichihara Chiba Ladies and Omiya Ardija VENTUS set a new record for the highest attendance at a WE League official match, including both league and cup competitions. The thrilling encounter took place at the National Stadium, where an impressive crowd of 26,605 fans witnessed the action unfold.
This remarkable attendance figure surpassed the previous record of 20,156 set just a few months earlier on March 8, 2025, during a match between Sanfrecce Hiroshima Regina and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Urawa Reds Ladies. The fans were treated to a gripping contest that ended in a 2-2 draw, showcasing the competitive spirit of both teams.
The match was part of a doubleheader, coinciding with the J-League fixture between JEF United Chiba and RB Omiya Ardija, which was scheduled to kick off at 4 PM. However, the excitement began earlier in the day when the women’s teams took to the pitch at noon, igniting the passion of supporters who filled the stadium.
In a dramatic turn of events, Yuzuha Nishio from Omiya Ardija VENTUS scored an equalizing goal during stoppage time, bringing the match to a thrilling conclusion. Nishio received a passionate pass from teammate Risa Kanemura and executed a powerful shot to level the score. This moment not only showcased her talent but also highlighted the teamwork that has become a hallmark of the VENTUS squad.
Reflecting on the match, Nishio expressed her gratitude, stating, "Playing at the National Stadium is a dream come true, and I owe it all to my teammates who have helped me shine." This goal marked Nishio's first in the WE League, a significant milestone for the young player.
On the other side, Hayana Hayashi of JEF United Chiba also made headlines by scoring a stunning goal in the 89th minute that temporarily put her team ahead. Hayashi, who has faced challenges in her career, shared her emotions after the match, saying, "I’ve worked hard for this moment, and I’m grateful for the support from my teammates and coaches. This goal is a testament to perseverance and dedication." Her sentiment resonated with many as she reflected on the struggles she faced over the past three years, where playing time was scarce.
Both teams demonstrated their commitment to the game, with players from both sides emphasizing the importance of their performance. Kitamura Miu, a player for JEF United Chiba, mentioned that the team had a meeting following a disappointing previous match against Nojima, where they reflected on their performance and discussed the need to embody the spirit of "running and fighting."
"We realized that winning starts with our attitude on the pitch," Kitamura said. "We wanted to show our fans that we can compete at a high level and bring excitement to the game." This attitude was palpable throughout the match, as both teams engaged in fierce battles for possession.
Meanwhile, Kishikawa Natsuki from JEF United Chiba noted the significance of the match and the responsibility that came with playing in front of such a large crowd. "We felt the weight of expectations, and it was crucial for us to perform well, not just for ourselves but for everyone who came to support us," she stated.
The match also featured the inspiring presence of 16-year-old Sato Momoto from Omiya Ardija, who experienced the thrill of playing at the National Stadium for the first time. Her enthusiasm was evident as she took to the field, showcasing the bright future ahead for women’s soccer in Japan.
As both teams gear up for their upcoming matches against league leaders NTV Tokyo Verdy Beleza, they carry with them the confidence gained from this record-setting encounter. Coach Rina Yanai of Omiya Ardija expressed optimism about her team's chances, stating, "We have nothing to lose against the top team, and we will approach the match with courage and determination."
JEF United Ichihara Chiba Ladies, too, are eager to build on the momentum from this match as they prepare for their final game. Hayashi emphasized the need to continue improving, stating, "We need to learn from this experience and ensure that we keep pushing forward in our remaining matches."
As the WE League continues to grow, the significance of this match cannot be overstated. It serves as a reminder of the increasing popularity of women's soccer in Japan and the passionate support that fans bring to the stadium. With the record attendance, the league has set a new benchmark that highlights the potential for future growth and success.
In conclusion, the thrilling match between JEF United Ichihara Chiba Ladies and Omiya Ardija VENTUS not only captivated the hearts of over 26,000 fans but also set a new standard for attendance in the WE League. As both teams look ahead to their remaining fixtures, they carry with them the lessons learned and the hopes of continuing to inspire the next generation of female athletes.
