Yamaguchi stands tall as late shock rocks Hiroshima | OneFootball

Kawasaki Frontale Edge Sanfrecce Hiroshima in Late Drama

J1 League, Round 19

Sanfrecce Hiroshima 1–2 Kawasaki Frontale Date: 2025-05-31 Venue: Edion Stadium Hiroshima Attendance: 25,909

Match Overview

Kawasaki Frontale recorded a 2-1 victory at Sanfrecce Hiroshima, deciding the match with a stoppage time winner in front of a strong crowd of over 25,000. The J1 League contest brought together two sides navigating new squad faces and busy fixture lists, delivering an even and eventful ninety minutes.

The visitors broke through first following a cautious opening half. Marcinho’s goal just after halftime gave Frontale the lead, capitalizing on patient build-up and a fast transition. Sanfrecce responded with energy, frequently testing Kawasaki’s new goalkeeper Louis Yamaguchi but finding him in resolute form.

Hayato Araki brought Sanfrecce level in the 86th minute after a period of sustained pressure. Both managers used the bench heavily, looking for fresh legs and a late breakthrough. In added time, Kawasaki’s Asahi Sasaki finished a counter-attack to restore Frontale’s lead, securing all three points as Hiroshima ran out of time.

Inside the Numbers

Sanfrecce Hiroshima attempted 19 shots, with 7 on target, but repeatedly found Yamaguchi blocking their path. Their 3-4-2-1 system delivered 5 corners and 82% passing accuracy on 491 passes. Despite a higher shot count and late equalizer, the conversion rate was lacking.

Kawasaki Frontale saw slightly more of the ball (52%), moved it with similar efficiency (543 passes, 82% completion), and managed 13 shots, 6 on target. Yamaguchi’s 7 saves stood out, especially in the game’s later stages as Hiroshima pressed for a winner.

Standout Performances

Louis Yamaguchi delivered a commanding display in goal for Kawasaki, directly impacting the outcome with seven saves and calm under pressure. Yuki Yamamoto anchored the midfield, winning all duels and controlling the tempo. Asahi Sasaki was pivotal, not just for the winning goal in injury time but also for his steady defensive presence and creative play.

For Sanfrecce, Hayato Araki’s equalizing goal capped a busy outing on both ends of the pitch, highlighted by 15 duels won and five interceptions. Sota Koshimichi, despite limited minutes, provided late urgency. Tsukasa Shiotani contributed to buildup and kept composure at the back.

Tactical and Seasonal Context

Michael Skibbe’s Sanfrecce side stuck to their compact 3-4-2-1, with quick transitions and a high press, but couldn’t turn possession and shot volume into a second goal. Frontale’s 4-2-3-1, led by creative midfielders and the new faces from the winter window, continued its upward trend under Shigetoshi Hasebe’s management.

The loss leaves Hiroshima in 3rd, holding onto a position at the top end of the table but seeing a five-game winning streak ended. Kawasaki climbs to 7th, continuing recent momentum after a string of draws and integrating new arrivals into the matchday core.

Off the Pitch

Fans were engaged on both sides, with Kawasaki running a pop-up store at the Hiroshima stadium and both clubs enjoying strong attendance and community involvement. No fresh injuries or major controversies arose, and both squads featured several winter signings who have already become regular contributors.

Fixture congestion remains an ongoing factor as both teams juggle domestic and (for Kawasaki) continental commitments. The league table continues to compress, keeping the title and top spots within reach for multiple clubs.

Looking Ahead

Sanfrecce travel to Kashima in their next outing, looking to rebound and solidify their top-three status. Kawasaki meet Yokohama FC, aiming to build on a win that combines resilience, tactical discipline, and a timely finish.