hungry at home: zelvia draw the line | OneFootball

Machida Zelvia 3–0 Kashiwa Reysol: Analysis from a Key J1 League Fixture

Match Overview

Machida Zelvia delivered a 3-0 home win against second-placed Kashiwa Reysol in Round 17 of the J1 League. This result stands out considering Machida’s ongoing struggles at home and Kashiwa’s recent form, including a 13-match unbeaten streak. Both sides entered the match with highly active transfer windows and new head coaches shaping evolving lineups.

Key Moments

The home side made a statement before many had settled into their seats. In the 4th minute, Kotaro Hayashi opened the scoring for Machida. Just twelve minutes later, Kashiwa’s Taiyo Koga turned the ball into his own net under pressure, giving Machida a cushion. As the first half ended, Sang-Ho Na converted a penalty (45+2’) following a foul on Se-hun Oh, effectively sealing the contest before half-time.

Despite a series of changes from both benches in the second half, neither side could alter the scoreline. The early and clinical start from Machida set the tone and Kashiwa struggled to generate a route back.

Tactical Shape and Selection

Go Kuroda fielded Machida in a 3-4-2-1, compact defensively and quick on transitions. The back three of Ibrahim Drešević, Daihachi Okamura, and Gen Shoji anchored the shape, offering stability after a period in which Machida had conceded late goals in several matches. Kosei Tani returned in goal after a brief loan departure earlier in the season, while Takuma Nishimura led the attacking midfield duo alongside Sang-Ho Na, supporting Oh Se-hun.

Ricardo Rodríguez set Kashiwa Reysol up in a 3-1-4-2, with Koki Kumasaka holding midfield, and Hayato Nakama and Mao Hosoya starting up front. Kashiwa made six changes from their previous game, a reflection of fixture congestion but also a possible disruption to their recent rhythm.

Statistical Breakdown

Kashiwa saw more possession (65%) and completed nearly twice as many passes (587 to Machida’s 313), boasting 80% accuracy. Machida, though, were efficient—three goals from three shots on target out of thirteen overall attempts. Kashiwa managed only two shots on target, unable to convert their control of the ball into genuine threat. The visitors approached the Machida area often, earning seven corners, but struggled to unsettle a disciplined defensive unit.

Defensively, Machida were selective and effective. Okamura and Shoji each contributed four tackles and multiple interceptions, while Hayashi’s goal and energy in transition proved valuable. Oh Se-hun, back at the club after a brief spell away, won the penalty that sealed Machida’s first-half dominance and offered a physical focal point up front.

Club Context and Recent Form

Machida Zelvia had come into this match with the league’s worst home record, winning only once in six previous home fixtures and often conceding late. The mood among players and staff remained focused; Head Coach Kuroda acknowledged the difficulty of recent weeks and placed emphasis on defensive organization. The club’s 2025 slogan—“be hungry for victory”—had recently taken on extra meaning inside the dressing room.

Support from the stands has been unwavering, and the win against a top rival now gives Machida an opportunity to stabilize their campaign and address expectations. The result also follows the permanent transfer of Yu Hirakawa to Bristol City, further highlighting Machida’s development of players even as squad turnover continues.

For Kashiwa Reysol, the defeat marks the end of an impressive unbeaten run. Rodríguez had rotated six positions, likely with an eye on schedule congestion, but the coordination wasn’t evident as Kashiwa struggled to trouble Machida’s structure.

Off-the-pitch and Supporter Notes

Machida’s ongoing efforts in digital fan engagement, including recent technology projects, reflect their commitment to supporter culture even during difficult sporting periods. For Kashiwa, the “yellow wall” and the “Kashiwa kara sekai e” slogan remain central to the club’s identity, though this loss will prompt reflection among fans accustomed to recent success.

Talking Points

Pressure had been mounting for Machida to respond at home, and for Kashiwa to maintain a hold near the top of the table. Machida’s performance, featuring early scoring and defensive discipline, provides a direct response to questions about their ability to see out matches. Kashiwa’s rotation, while understandable, laid bare the challenges of navigating fixture congestion in a title chase. Neither side reported major injury issues, and both managers are still shaping their squads after substantial transfer business in 2025.