NTV Tokyo Verdy Beleza delivered one of their most convincing performances of the Women Empowerment League season on 24 October 2026, defeating AS Elfen Saitama 4-1 in a match that underlined their attacking quality and title ambitions. Beleza were sharper from the opening whistle, controlled the tempo for long spells, and turned sustained pressure into goals at key moments. The three points keep them firmly in the conversation at the top end of the table, while Elfen Saitama are left to reflect on a difficult afternoon defensively.

Match overview

Beleza set the tone early with a high pressing approach that forced Elfen into hurried clearances and limited their ability to build from the back. The home side circulated the ball quickly through midfield, stretched the opposition with wide overlaps, and created a steady flow of chances. Elfen sat in a compact mid-block and looked to spring forward on the counter, but they struggled to keep possession long enough to relieve pressure.

The scoreline reflected Beleza’s control. They led 2-0 at half-time and, after Elfen briefly threatened a comeback early in the second half, restored their advantage with two more goals in the final quarter of the match. The 4-1 result was a fair reflection of the difference in chance creation and territorial dominance.

Key moments

• 12th minute: Beleza opened the scoring when Mina Tanaka converted from close range after a sharp cutback from the right.
• 34th minute: Aoba Fujino doubled the lead with a curling effort from the edge of the penalty area after a patient passing move.
• 52nd minute: Elfen pulled one back through a well-struck free-kick from Yuzuho Shiokoshi, briefly shifting the momentum.
• 68th minute: Tanaka restored Beleza’s two-goal cushion with a powerful header from a corner.
• 84th minute: Substitute Nanami Ota sealed the win with a low finish after another quick attacking transition.

Tactical story

Beleza’s 4-3-3 shape gave them excellent width and numerical superiority in midfield. Their full-backs pushed high, allowing the wingers to drift inside and combine with Tanaka in central areas. The midfield trio recycled possession efficiently and won most of the second balls, which kept Elfen pinned back for long periods. Beleza’s pressing was also well coordinated: the front line curved their runs to block central passing lanes, forcing Elfen into wide areas where they could be trapped against the touchline.

Elfen’s best moments came when Shiokoshi dropped into pockets of space between Beleza’s midfield and defence. Her free-kick goal was a reminder of her quality, and her driving runs caused occasional problems on the break. However, Elfen’s defensive shape became stretched as the game wore on, and Beleza’s substitutions added fresh energy in the final 20 minutes. The home side’s ability to switch play quickly from one flank to the other was a recurring problem for Elfen’s back line.

Standout players

Mina Tanaka was the focal point of Beleza’s attack, scoring twice and linking play intelligently. Her movement in the box created space for others, and her header from the corner was a decisive moment. Aoba Fujino was equally influential, combining a goal with constant creativity on the ball. Her ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations gave Beleza a reliable outlet throughout the match.

For Elfen, Yuzuho Shiokoshi was the standout performer. She scored her side’s only goal and remained their most dangerous player in transition. Her set-piece delivery and close control kept Elfen competitive for a spell, even as Beleza controlled the overall flow of the game.

What the result means

The win strengthens Beleza’s position in the Women Empowerment League standings and gives them valuable momentum in the race for the title. Their attacking depth and ability to score from open play and set pieces make them a difficult side to contain. For Elfen Saitama, the defeat highlights the need for greater defensive resilience and better ball retention under pressure. They showed flashes of quality but could not sustain them against a team of Beleza’s calibre.

Beleza will look to carry this performance into their next league fixture, while Elfen must regroup quickly and find a more compact defensive display. On this evidence, Beleza remain one of the teams to beat in the Women Empowerment League this season.