Kashiwa showed his strength in the final minutes, and advanced to the semi-finals for the first time in five years since the 2020 tournament, when he defeated Yokohama 5-1 in two matches and finished in the runner-up.

In the first half, with a three-point lead in the first game, they were able to withstand Yokohama's fierce defense, while creating two great opportunities, starting with midfielders Koya Matsu Tomoya (30) and Nakagawa Atsushi (23).

In the 37th minute, it was thought that they gave the first goal to Yokohama's forward Uenaka Asahi (23), but the video was judged and it was offside. Halftime reached 0-0.

In the second half, midfielder Yamada Yuji (25) shot from right in front of the penalty area. In the 10th minute, midfielder Segawa Yusuke (31), who scored goals in two consecutive official matches in the tournament, and in the 11th minute, forward Kakida Yuuki (28), who scored six goals in the tournament, were aiming for goals in a row.

However, the second half was just before the end of the game, when scoreless draws were even decided. As a substitute midfielder Toshima Shoro (29) responded to an ally cross from within the penalty area and scored the first goal with his right foot from the center.

Coach Ricardo Rodriguez (51) said, “I am very pleased that he made that chance at the end of the match into a goal, won the second game, and advanced to the semi-finals,” and praised the team, saying, “The players were so focused and I really appreciate how the team was able to unite and express the team's growth in this match.”[Izumi Kotaro]

[Levain Cup]Hiroshima – Shonan, Kashiwa – Yokohama, Kawasaki F – Urawa, Kobe – Yokohama FC / Breaking news for the quarterfinals