Čavrić masterclass breaks Okayama's home fortress (Fagiano Okayama vs Kashima Antlers analysis) | OneFootball

Kashima Secure Comeback Victory Over Fagiano Okayama

Antlers end losing streak with 2-1 away win thanks to Čavrić masterclass

Match Summary

Kashima Antlers came from behind to secure a vital 2-1 victory against Fagiano Okayama at JFE Ballpark Stadium, ending their three-match losing streak in the J1 League.

The hosts, who had been unbeaten at home since their promotion to J1, took the lead in the 43rd minute through Ryunosuke Sato. However, Kashima responded strongly after the break with Aleksandar Čavrić equalising in the 50th minute before substitute Talis Brener netted the winner in the 73rd minute.

The result lifts Kashima to eighth in the table while dealing Okayama their first home defeat of the season.

Key Moments

The match began with both sides battling for control, with Kashima earning an early penalty in the 21st minute. However, Yuma Suzuki failed to convert from the spot, keeping the scores level.

Okayama capitalised on this reprieve and took the lead just before half-time when 18-year-old Ryunosuke Sato, who is on loan from FC Tokyo, continued his impressive form with his third goal in as many matches.

The visitors responded immediately after the restart when Čavrić found the net with an assist from Keisuke Tsukui. The Serbian winger, who joined from Slovan Bratislava in February, then turned provider for Brener's decisive strike midway through the second half.

Match Statistics

Standout Performers

Aleksandar Čavrić was the star of the show, scoring one and assisting another in a commanding display that earned him a 9.0 rating. The Serbian winger has made an immediate impact since completing his permanent move to Kashima.

For the hosts, Ryunosuke Sato continued his impressive scoring run with another goal, while Takaya Kimura worked tirelessly in both attack and defence.

Kashima's substitutions proved decisive, with Talis Brener coming off the bench to score the winner and turn the match in the visitors' favour.

Tactical Analysis

Kashima manager Toru Oniki made effective changes in the second half to wrestle control of the match. After struggling to break down Okayama's defence in the first period, the introduction of fresh legs in attack paid dividends.

Okayama, who had built their early-season success on defensive solidity with just five goals conceded in their previous ten matches, found themselves increasingly under pressure as the match progressed. Their pass completion rate of 65% compared to Kashima's 76% highlighted their difficulties in maintaining possession.

The hosts' frustration showed in the closing stages with four yellow cards as they pushed for an equaliser.

Wider Context

Fagiano Okayama have been one of the surprise packages this season, sitting fourth in the table despite being newly promoted. Their defensive organisation had been their strength, with six clean sheets in ten matches before today's defeat.

Kashima, who started the season strongly before enduring a difficult run of four consecutive defeats, will hope this result marks a turning point in their campaign. The performance of Čavrić will be particularly encouraging for manager Oniki, who has been looking to find the right balance in his attack.

Both teams have undergone significant squad changes this season, with Okayama bringing in several loan signings including the impressive Sato, while Kashima have invested in attacking talent such as Leo Ceara from Cerezo Osaka and Čavrić.