Tochigi City 1-2 FC Imabari: Imabari Come From Behind to Take Away Win

FC Imabari secured an important 2-1 away victory over Tochigi City at Tochigi City Football Stadium on Saturday, 3 October 2026, continuing their push for a high finish in the Japanese J2 League. Tochigi City made the brighter start and took an early lead, but Imabari responded with two second-half goals to turn the match around and leave with all three points.

The win underlines FC Imabari’s growing reputation as one of the most resilient teams in the division, while Tochigi City are left to reflect on another close game that slipped away.

Match Overview

Tochigi City began with energy and intent, pressing FC Imabari high and winning possession in dangerous areas. Their reward came in the 14th minute when Kota Mori collected the ball on the left side of the box, cut inside, and fired a low shot into the bottom corner. The home crowd responded loudly, and for a while Tochigi looked capable of adding a second.

FC Imabari weathered the storm and gradually imposed their own rhythm. The equaliser arrived in the 53rd minute through Rafael Costa, who reacted quickest to a rebound after the Tochigi goalkeeper had parried a powerful strike. From that moment, the away side looked the more likely winner, and Shota Kawanishi completed the comeback in the 78th minute with a calm finish after a flowing team move.

Key Moments

• 14' – Tochigi City opener: Kota Mori cut in from the left and found the bottom corner with a precise low effort.
• 53' – FC Imabari equaliser: Rafael Costa pounced on a rebound and smashed the ball home from close range.
• 78' – FC Imabari winner: Shota Kawanishi finished off a slick passing sequence, placing his shot beyond the goalkeeper.
• 90+3' – Tochigi City chance: A late header from a corner flashed just wide, denying the hosts a dramatic equaliser.

Tactical Story

Tochigi City’s early plan worked well: they pressed aggressively and tried to isolate their wide players against Imabari’s full-backs. However, as the game wore on, FC Imabari’s midfield began to control possession and forced Tochigi to defend deeper. Imabari’s coach switched to a more direct approach in the second half, targeting the spaces behind Tochigi’s advanced defensive line.

The winning goal was a perfect example of Imabari’s patience and quality. After a series of quick passes in midfield, the ball was worked into the box, and Kawanishi applied the finishing touch. Tochigi pushed for an equaliser but struggled to create clear chances against an organised Imabari defence.

Standout Players

Rafael Costa was a constant threat for FC Imabari, using his strength and movement to unsettle the Tochigi back line. Shota Kawanishi showed composure for the winner, while Imabari’s captain controlled the tempo from midfield. For Tochigi City, Kota Mori was the standout performer, and their goalkeeper made several sharp saves to keep the score respectable.

J2 League Table Impact

FC Imabari’s 2-1 win strengthens their position in the upper half of the J2 League standings and reinforces their promotion ambitions. Tochigi City remain in a difficult part of the table and will need to turn promising performances into points quickly. The away victory also improves Imabari’s head-to-head record against a direct rival in the race for a play-off place.