Sanfrecce Hiroshima Clinch J.League Cup Title with Set-Piece Prowess

In a display of tactical brilliance and clinical finishing, Sanfrecce Hiroshima hoisted the J.League Cup trophy for the second time in their history, overcoming Kashiwa Reysol with a commanding 3-1 victory. The final,held at the iconic National Stadium in Tokyo,was largely decided in a breathtaking first half where Hiroshima showcased their mastery of set pieces,a strategy that proved unstoppable against a formidable Kashiwa side vying for the J1 championship.

Hiroshima’s path to glory in this tournament was paved with strategic execution, and their semi-final berth in the Emperor’s Cup further underscores their strong 2022 season. Against Kashiwa,the winning goals all originated from dead-ball situations: two from powerful long throw-ins by right-back Shuto Nakano and one from a well-placed free kick. This tactical approach left Kashiwa, a team accustomed to battling at the top of the J1 league, searching for answers.

Sasaki Praises Team’s First-Half Dominance

Hiroshima’s captain, Sho Sasaki, lauded his team’s performance, stating, We played great from the first half. We demonstrated our strength in set pieces and implemented what we have been working on all year. This sentiment highlights the meticulous planning and belief within the Hiroshima squad.

Kashiwa Reysol, who last tasted major silverware in this very tournament back in 2013, entered the match with high hopes. While they showed flashes of early promise, they were ultimately undone by Hiroshima’s set-piece specialists. The deadlock was broken in the 25th minute when defender Hayato Araki out-jumped Kashiwa’s goalkeeper, Ryosuke Kojima, to powerfully head home a long throw-in from Nakano on the right flank. It was a moment that set the tone for the rest of the half.

The lead was extended in the 38th minute by Shunki Higashi, who curled a stunning free kick from 25 yards out into the net.Just before halftime, Nakano’s influence struck again. His pinpoint throw-in found its way towards the top corner of the goal. Captain Sasaki, rising to the occasion, flicked the ball back into the danger area, where striker Ryo Germain was perfectly positioned to nod it home, giving Hiroshima a commanding three-goal advantage.

Kashiwa Fights Back, But it’s Too Little, Too Late

Kashiwa Reysol, currently sitting just a point behind the J1 league leaders with three games remaining, demonstrated their championship pedigree in the second half. They enjoyed more possession and began to assert pressure. Agile midfielder Tomoya Koyamatsu was instrumental in their resurgence, orchestrating attacks and eventually finding a way through the Hiroshima defense. In the 81st minute, Koyamatsu threaded a well-timed pass that split the defense, allowing striker mao Hosoya to get in behind. Hosoya, who hasn’t been a consistent starter this season, showed his predatory instincts, calmly slotting the ball past the goalkeeper to pull one back and ignite a glimmer of hope for Kashiwa.

However, Hiroshima’s solid first-half performance and their ability