Ehime FC Women Dominate Yokohama FC Seagulls in Nadeshiko League 1 Clash
May 16, 2026 – Ehime FC Women delivered a commanding performance at home to defeat Yokohama FC Seagulls Women 3-1 in a lively Nadeshiko League 1 encounter. The victory propelled Ehime up the standings, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive resilience.
Match Overview
Played under clear skies on a well-maintained pitch, the match kicked off at 13:15 with both sides eager to assert themselves. Ehime took control early, pressing high and forcing turnovers in midfield. Their first goal came in the 18th minute when forward Miyu Kato slotted home from a precise cross by Yuna Tanaka. The Seagulls responded with a spell of possession but struggled to break through Ehime’s organized backline.
Just before halftime, Ehime doubled their lead. A corner kick was met by defender Riko Sakai, whose glancing header beat the goalkeeper at the near post. The 2-0 scoreline reflected Ehime’s dominance in both chances and territory.
Second Half Drama
Yokohama FC Seagulls showed renewed energy after the interval. Their efforts paid off in the 58th minute when Haruka Nishida found space on the edge of the box and unleashed a curling shot into the top corner, reducing the deficit to 2-1. The away side pushed for an equalizer, but Ehime’s goalkeeper Rina Shimizu made a crucial save from a close-range header in the 72nd minute.
Ehime sealed the result in the 81st minute. A swift counter-attack culminated in substitute Saki Ito finishing calmly after a one-two with Kato. The goal drained any remaining momentum from Yokohama, and Ehime saw out the final minutes comfortably.
Standout Players
- Miyu Kato (Ehime) – A goal and an assist, her movement constantly troubled the Seagulls defense.
- Rina Shimizu (Ehime) – Four saves, including a vital stop at 2-1, kept her side in control.
- Haruka Nishida (Yokohama) – Scored a superb goal and was a threat throughout the second half.
League Impact
The win lifted Ehime FC Women into third place in the Nadeshiko League 1 table, just two points behind leaders Urawa Reds Ladies. For Yokohama FC Seagulls, the defeat left them stuck in mid-table, now five points off the top three. With the season approaching its midpoint, every result carries weight in the race for the title and potential relegation.