Kashima Antlers clinched their record-extending ninth J-League championship after a tense 2–1 victory over Yokohama F. Marinos on a pulsating final day of the 2025 season. The triumph, witnessed by a sold-out crowd at Kashima Stadium on Saturday, capped off a dramatic title race that went down to the last minute, with Kashiwa Reysol pushing the Antlers until the very end.
The hero of the night was undoubtedly Leo Ceara, the Brazilian striker who has been the heartbeat of Kashima’s attack all season. With goals in both halves — in the 20th and 57th minutes — Ceara carried his team across the finish line and etched his name deeper into club history.
Ceara’s Brilliance Sets the Tone
Kashima entered the final matchday with a slim one-point lead over Reysol. That advantage meant a victory would guarantee the title regardless of results elsewhere. The pressure was immense, but Ceara delivered in the way elite strikers do.
The breakthrough came in the 20th minute when the league’s top scorer reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the penalty area. With brilliant technique, he unleashed a sharp volley from close range, sending Kashima supporters into a frenzy. The goal calmed nerves and allowed Kashima to settle into their rhythm.
Ceara’s second arrived 12 minutes after the restart — and showcased his mature positional awareness. Yuta Matsumura floated a perfectly weighted cross from the right flank, and Ceara rose above the Yokohama defense to guide a precise header into the far corner. It was his 21st goal of the campaign, a tally that crowned him as the J-League’s most lethal finisher.
That cushion would later prove invaluable.
Late Scare from Marinos Adds to the Drama
Despite Kashima’s dominance throughout the contest, the visitors refused to concede quietly. In stoppage time, Jun Amano capitalized on a rare defensive lapse, chipping the ball over goalkeeper Tomoki Hayakawa to make it 2–1. The late scare electrified the stadium and forced the Antlers to endure a tense final stretch.
But in classic Kashima fashion, the defense held firm when it mattered most. The final whistle released a wave of emotion across the stands as players, staff, and fans celebrated a championship that reflects the club’s trademark resilience and winning DNA.
Oniki’s Fifth Title — and First with Kashima
For manager Toru Oniki, this title marks yet another milestone in a decorated coaching career. Oniki, who previously guided Kawasaki Frontale to four league triumphs, arrived at Kashima with high expectations — and he met them immediately, steering the team to glory in his debut season.
His ability to blend veteran stability with dynamic attacking football has been widely praised. Under his leadership, Kashima rediscovered their identity as one of Japan’s most formidable clubs, built on discipline, efficiency, and big-match temperament.
Reysol Finish Second, Kyoto Surge to Third
While the Antlers celebrated, Kashiwa Reysol also did their part by securing a 1–0 win over Machida Zelvia. Daihachi Okamura’s unfortunate own goal confirmed Reysol’s second-place finish, but it wasn’t enough to overtake Kashima.
Elsewhere, Kyoto Sanga produced one of the surprise stories of the season. Their 2–0 win over defending champions Vissel Kobe allowed them to leap into third place, highlighting the competitive depth of this year’s league.
A Title Built on Consistency and Star Power
Kashima’s latest triumph stands as the culmination of months of hard work, tactical discipline, and individual brilliance. Ceara’s goals have undoubtedly been central to the campaign, but the success is also a testament to the strong collective effort across the squad.
Key factors that fueled Kashima’s championship run include:
- A disciplined defensive unit anchored by Hayakawa and a stable back line
- Midfield control and creativity, with players like Matsumura providing crucial assists
- Oniki’s flexible tactical approach, allowing Kashima to adapt to various match situations
- A winning mentality, the hallmark of a club that has now secured nine league titles
A Historic Season for the Antlers
As fireworks lit the sky above Kashima Stadium and fans celebrated well into the night, one thing became clear: the Antlers have reasserted themselves as the standard-bearers of Japanese football.
Their ninth J-League crown not only extends their record but also underlines their ability to remain competitive across generations. With players like Ceara at the peak of their powers and Oniki crafting a cohesive, modern footballing machine, the future looks bright for one of Asia’s great clubs.
ALSO READ :
