Kashima Antlers win Japanese league title, pay tribute to Zico | OneFootball

The Kashima Antlers claimed their ninth Japanese title this Saturday, extending their record, on the final day of the J. League season, by defeating Yokohama F-Marinos 2-1. 

Watched by Brazilian legend and former player Zico, the Antlers took to the field in their packed stadium with a one-point lead over Kashiwa Reysol in the standings. 

A goal in each half from Brazilian striker Leo Ceará put the Antlers in control of the match, but Yokohama scored in the first of five minutes of stoppage time in the second half, making for a dramatic finish, as Reysol won their game 1-0. 

The Antlers held on for the win to claim their first J. League title since 2016, in their first season under coach Toru Oniki. 

“The game got tough at the end, but the players grew throughout the season,” said Oniki, who joined the Antlers after winning four league titles with Kawasaki Frontale. “We wanted to open up a big lead at the start of the season, but today everything came down to the details.” 

Sovereigns

The Antlers were already the most successful team in the J. League, and their new title put them four championships ahead of their closest rival. 

They led the league for most of the season but struggled to shake off Reysol, who were seeking their first title since 2011. 

Reysol finished the season with six consecutive wins and had not lost in the league since August. 

“The players now feel more responsibility playing for the team and the club, so they were able to play today’s game without panicking,” said Oniki. “I’m really impressed with how much they’ve grown mentally.” 

Photo: STR / JIJI PRESS / AFP

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.