J.League Cup: Kashima Antlers Bolstered by Returnees, Urawa Red Diamonds Rely on Outspoken Foreign Players

On the afternoon of September 10th, the second leg of the J.League Cup quarterfinals continued. Kashima Antlers, who had been held to a draw by Nagoya Grampus in the first leg despite dominating the match, are now feeling more confident about their chances of advancing, thanks to the return of injured players and the addition of overseas star Gaku Shibasaki. Meanwhile, Urawa Red Diamonds, who won the first leg away against Gamba Osaka, face the challenge of maintaining their lead at home, where their recent record against Gamba has been less than stellar. Overconfidence among Urawa's players could also pose a risk.

Kashima Antlers vs. Nagoya Grampus - Young Guns Step Up

The first leg of the matchup between Kashima Antlers and Nagoya Grampus was a bitter pill to swallow for Kashima. Leading for most of the game, they conceded an equalizer in the fourth minute of stoppage time. The disappointment was evident in the eyes of the Kashima players post-match. Head coach Daiki Iwamasa lamented that his team had opportunities to secure a 2-0 lead earlier. The first leg was a showcase for young talent: 22-year-old midfielder Yuta Matsumura came off the bench at halftime for Kashima and scored within three minutes. For Nagoya, 24-year-old left-winger Tojiro Kubo entered in the 79th minute and smartly positioned himself to score the equalizer, marking his first goal for the team since transferring from J2 League side Fujieda in late July. His excitement during the post-match interview mirrored the joy of his goal celebration.

Kashima Antlers took the lead early in the second half of the first leg and had numerous counterattack opportunities but failed to capitalize. Returning to their home ground with the support of their fans will be a significant advantage. The improved injury situation also bodes well for them. Yuta Higuchi, who had missed two games, rejoined full training the day after the first leg and is now match-fit. Additionally, Gaku Shibasaki, who returned from Spanish Segunda División side Leganés on September 1st, is now registered and available for selection.

In the first leg, Kashima's main tactic was ball control. They executed this well while their stamina held, effectively neutralizing Nagoya's strengths on the flanks. However, as their energy waned in the second half, their formation became disorganized, and Nagoya's attacking opportunities increased, culminating in the late equalizer. Both teams are likely to stick to their initial strategies in the second leg, with Kashima expected to dictate the game. Given the short three-day interval between the matches, neither team will have had much time to address their weaknesses. A 1-1 draw seems plausible, with Kashima advancing after extra time.

Urawa Red Diamonds vs. Gamba Osaka - The Big Mouth of Schalk

Urawa Red Diamonds secured a 1-0 away win over Gamba Osaka in the first leg, thanks to a goal from Dutch left-winger Alex Schalk. Urawa's prospects for advancing seemed promising, but Schalk's post-match comments may have set them up for trouble. Declaring that Urawa would be unbeatable in the return leg at their home ground, Saitama Stadium 2002, with their fans' support, Schalk's overconfidence could backfire.

Apart from Schalk, two other Urawa players delivered noteworthy performances in the first leg. Striker Toshiki Takahashi, making his first start since the League Cup's first round against Shonan Bellmare, played a crucial role despite not scoring. His presence as a target man and quick reactions to second balls were instrumental, with his contribution recognized in the build-up to Schalk's goal. Goalkeeper Ayumi Niekawa also deserves mention. Making his first appearance since the Emperor's Cup second round, Niekawa stepped up in the absence of first-choice keeper Zion Suzuki, who was abroad. The gloves returned to veteran Shusaku Nishikawa, but at 37, his age is a factor, and the younger Niekawa showed he is capable of challenging for the starting spot. Niekawa's assured performance suggests he could feature more regularly in the league.

Gamba Osaka, having improved significantly in the league this season and free from relegation worries, can now focus more on the League Cup. In the first leg, they dominated possession in the first half but failed to convert their chances, much to the players' regret. Gamba has won three of their last five visits to Saitama, indicating they have a real chance in the return leg. Urawa's overconfident players may not be in the best mental state, providing Gamba with an opportunity to capitalize. An away win of 2-0 for Gamba could see them through to the semifinals.

Kashima’s Tactical Edge

Kashima Antlers' approach to the first leg was defined by their ability to control the game through possession, leveraging their tactical discipline and young talents. Despite the eventual equalizer, their performance provided a clear blueprint for success in the second leg. The return of key players and the addition of Shibasaki enhance their squad depth and options. In the high-pressure environment of knockout football, maintaining composure and sticking to a well-executed game plan will be crucial for Kashima. Their ability to manage the game’s tempo and transition effectively between defense and attack will likely determine their success.

Urawa’s Confidence Conundrum

For Urawa Red Diamonds, the primary challenge will be balancing confidence with caution. Schalk’s exuberant comments reflect a team riding high on an away victory, but they must avoid complacency. The individual performances of players like Takahashi and Niekawa highlight the depth and potential within the squad, but collective discipline and focus will be essential. Gamba Osaka’s tactical adjustments and determination to overcome their first-leg deficit mean Urawa must be prepared for a fierce contest. The psychological aspect, managing expectations and pressure, will be as important as the tactical execution on the field.

As the J.League Cup quarterfinals progress, both Kashima Antlers and Urawa Red Diamonds face distinct challenges and opportunities. Kashima's blend of tactical acumen and young talent, bolstered by key returns, contrasts with Urawa's need to temper confidence with caution. The outcomes of these matches will provide insight into their readiness for the semifinals and potentially beyond, showcasing the depth and resilience of their squads.