Ventforet Kofu Come From Behind to Beat Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo 2-1

Kofu, Japan – August 29, 2026 – Ventforet Kofu produced a spirited second-half comeback to defeat a dangerous Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo side 2-1 in an entertaining J2 League fixture. The home side overturned a one-goal deficit to claim a valuable victory in front of their supporters at the JIT Recycle Ink Stadium.

Match Overview

Consadole Sapporo, fresh from their time in the top flight, came into the match with a reputation for attacking flair and a strong physical presence. They started brightly and took a well-deserved lead in the 24th minute when a powerful header from a corner gave them the advantage. The goal galvanized the visitors, who looked comfortable controlling the tempo as the first half progressed.

However, Kofu showed their own character. After a period of intense pressure following the break, the home side found their equalizer in the 58th minute. A well-taken goal from the edge of the box restored parity and set up a frantic final half-hour. With the momentum clearly shifted, Kofu pushed forward in search of a winner, and their reward came in the 84th minute when a scrappy goal from close range sealed the turnaround.

Key Moments

• 24' – Sapporo strike: A well-executed set-piece put the visitors ahead, with the towering center-back rising highest to nod home.
• 58' – Kofu equalize: A swift counter-attack ended with a curling shot that found the bottom corner, leveling the match.
• 84' – Late winner: Kofu kept the pressure on and eventually forced a mistake in the Sapporo defense, pouncing to score from inside the six-yard box.
• 90' + 3' – Last-ditch save: Sapporo almost snatched a dramatic equalizer, but the Kofu goalkeeper produced a fine save to preserve the points.

Tactical Story

Kofu's manager made a key tactical adjustment at halftime, pushing his team higher up the pitch and pressing Sapporo's defense into errors. This aggressive approach paid dividends, as the home side enjoyed sustained territorial dominance in the second period. Sapporo, who had been so comfortable in the first half, found themselves increasingly pinned back and unable to launch their characteristic counter-attacks.

The match was a testament to the fine margins in the J2 League. While Sapporo showed quality in spells, Kofu's relentless second-half intensity proved decisive. The home side's ability to adapt after a sluggish opening may be a turning point in their season.

Standings and Season Impact

After this result, Ventforet Kofu will look to build on the momentum, while Consadole Sapporo will see this as a missed opportunity to climb the table. With the jostling for playoff places already intense in the J2 League, every point matters. Kofu's resilience in front of their home fans is a positive sign as they target a strong finish to the campaign.