Ehime FC Women Edge Out Okayama Yunogo Belle in Nadeshiko League Thriller

Ehime FC Women secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Okayama Yunogo Belle Women on June 28, 2026, in a tightly contested Nadeshiko League 1 encounter. The result boosts Ehime's push for a top-half finish, while Okayama were left to rue missed opportunities as their winless run continued.

Match Overview

Played under overcast skies, the match saw both sides exchange early pressure. Ehime took the lead in the 23rd minute through a well-taken strike from forward Yui Narumi, who latched onto a through ball and slotted past the visiting keeper. Okayama responded strongly, equalising just before half-time when captain Miki Ito headed home from a corner. The second half was a tense affair until Ehime's substitute midfielder, Saki Kumagai, fired in a long-range effort in the 78th minute to restore the home side's advantage. Despite Okayama's late surge, Ehime held on for three crucial points.

Key Moments

• 23' - Ehime take the lead: Narumi's composed finish after a swift counter-attack put the hosts ahead.
• 41' - Okayama equalise: Ito's powerful header from a set piece brought the visitors level.
• 78' - Kumagai winner: A speculative strike from distance took a slight deflection and nestled into the bottom corner.
• 88' - Okayama denied: A goal-line clearance from Ehime defender Rika Sasaki preserved the win.

Tactical Battle

Ehime employed a high-pressing 4-3-3 formation, targeting Okayama's build-up play. The home side's midfield trio dominated possession in phases, but Okayama's direct approach caused problems, particularly from dead balls. The match swung on individual quality—Kumagai's moment of magic proved the difference.

Standout Players

Saki Kumagai (Ehime): The substitute's decisive goal and energetic midfield display earned her player of the match honours.
Miki Ito (Okayama): The captain was a constant aerial threat and scored the equaliser, also making several interceptions at the back.

Season Impact

With this win, Ehime move to 13 points from nine matches, climbing to sixth in the Nadeshiko League 1 table. Okayama remain in ninth place on eight points, now four points adrift of safety. The result tightens the mid-table battle as the season approaches its halfway point.