Sanfrecce Hiroshima Regina earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory over AC Nagano Parceiro Ladies in the Women Empowerment League at Hiroshima Regional Park Stadium on 25 October 2026, with Mami Ueno scoring the only goal of the game in the second half. The win strengthens Hiroshima’s push for a top-four finish and extends Nagano’s search for consistency on the road.

Match overview

Hiroshima controlled possession from the opening whistle, dictating the tempo and forcing Nagano into a deep defensive block. Nagano defended with discipline and looked to threaten on the counter, but clear chances were rare. The breakthrough arrived in the 72nd minute when Ueno converted a well-worked move down the left. Nagano responded with late pressure, but Hiroshima’s back line held firm in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.

Key moments

• 14th minute – Nagano threaten: A quick counter ended with a low shot that was comfortably saved.
• 38th minute – Hiroshima denied: Ueno’s header from a corner was tipped over the bar.
• 72nd minute – Opening goal: Ueno arrived at the near post to turn in a low cross, breaking Nagano’s resistance.
• 87th minute – Goal-line clearance: Hiroshima cleared a Nagano header off the line to preserve the lead.
• 90+2nd minute – Late block: A last-ditch challenge prevented Nagano from getting a shot away inside the box.

Tactical story

Hiroshima’s 4-3-3 setup emphasised width and quick combinations in the final third, with the full-backs pushing high to stretch Nagano’s back four. Nagano sat in a compact 4-4-2 block and tried to spring forward through direct passes, but they struggled to sustain attacks. As the game progressed, Hiroshima’s patience paid off, and their ability to recycle possession around the box created the decisive opening.

Standout players

Ueno was the standout performer, combining sharp movement with a clinical finish. Hiroshima’s goalkeeper produced a composed display, dealing confidently with crosses and late pressure. Nagano’s centre-backs deserve credit for limiting Hiroshima to a single goal, but the visitors lacked penetration in the final third.

Table impact and what comes next

The three points keep Hiroshima in the conversation for the league’s top positions and provide a timely boost ahead of a demanding run of fixtures. Nagano remain in search of momentum and will need to turn compact defensive displays into points. Both sides return to WE League action next weekend, with Hiroshima aiming to build on a controlled home win and Nagano focused on finding more attacking threat.