Kochi United claimed a hard-earned 2-1 victory over Kamatamare Sanuki in a lively J3 League contest on 23 August 2026. The home side battled back after conceding an early setback and produced a strong all-round display to secure all three points in front of their supporters at Kochi Haruno Athletic Stadium.

First half: early drama

Kamatamare Sanuki started brightly and stunned the hosts inside the opening exchanges. A swift attacking move caught the Kochi defence out of position, and the away side's forward finished clinically to give Sanuki a 1-0 lead. The early goal silenced the home crowd and forced Kochi United into a more aggressive response.

Kochi gradually settled into the game, dominating possession and pressing higher up the pitch. Their patience was rewarded before the interval when a well-timed run into the box met a precise cross, allowing the home team to level the scores at 1-1. The goal restored momentum and set up an intriguing second half.

Second half: Kochi take control

The hosts emerged after the break with renewed purpose. Kochi United moved the ball quicker and started to create repeated chances against a Sanuki side that now seemed content to defend and hit on the break. The pressure told when a clever pass split the visitors' back line, and the Kochi striker kept his composure to slot the ball past the goalkeeper and make it 2-1.

Kamatamare Sanuki attempted to respond with substitutions and a more direct approach, but Kochi's midfield anchored well and their defensive unit cleared the danger time after time. The final ten minutes saw the away side throw bodies forward, yet a combination of poor finishing and resolute defending ensured the scoreline stayed at 2-1.

Standout performers

• Kochi United's goalscorers: A striker's instinct — equalising before half-time and netting the winner in the second period.
• Kochi's midfield engine: Controlled the tempo and dictated play after the early setback.
• Sanuki's early spark: The visitors' opener was well-crafted, but they could not sustain that level.

J3 League context

The victory is another important step for Kochi United, who continue to build an encouraging campaign in the J3 League. Wins against experienced opponents like Kamatamare Sanuki carry extra weight, especially as the table begins to take shape and clubs jostle for position in what is always a competitive third tier.

For Kamatamare Sanuki, this was a frustrating away day. They showed enough in the opening half-hour to suggest they can compete, but defensive lapses and an inability to manage the game after their early goal proved costly. Attention will now turn to recovering points in their next league fixture.