Vissel Kobe 2–1 FC Imabari | International Club Friendly | 22 July 2026

Vissel Kobe edged out a resilient FC Imabari side 2–1 in an entertaining pre-season friendly at a neutral venue on 22 July 2026. The J1 League heavyweights continued their preparations for the upcoming domestic campaign with a narrow victory, while their third‑tier opponents from the J3 League showed plenty of fight and quality.

Match Overview

The match served as an important fitness and tactical test for both clubs. Vissel Kobe, boasting several high‑profile stars, controlled much of the possession, but Imabari’s compact defensive shape made life difficult. The opening goal came midway through the first half when Vissel’s attacking midfielder latched onto a through ball and finished calmly past the Imabari goalkeeper. The lead was doubled shortly before half‑time via a well‑worked set piece, with a defender heading home from a corner.

Imabari refused to wilt and pulled a goal back early in the second half after a swift counter‑attack caught the Vissel defence out of position. The goal injected fresh energy into the underdogs, and they pushed hard for an equaliser. Vissel, however, tightened their defensive lines and relied on experience to see out the 2–1 win.

Key Moments

• 25' – Vissel Kobe opener: sharp finish inside the box after a neat passing move.
• 42' – Second goal: a powerful header from a corner kick gave Vissel breathing room.
• 54' – Imabari reply: a rapid break ended with a composed low shot past the Vissel goalkeeper.
• 70' onwards – Imabari applied sustained pressure but Vissel’s defence held firm.

Tactical Story

Vissel Kobe deployed a fluid 4‑3‑3 shape, emphasising width and quick interchange between their forwards. Imabari sat in a disciplined 4‑4‑2 block, looking to hit on the counter. The first half was largely controlled by Vissel, but Imabari’s tactical adjustment after the break – pushing wing‑backs higher – created overloads and led directly to their goal. Vissel responded by dropping deeper and using substitutes to regain control in midfield.

Standout Players

• Vissel Kobe’s No.10 – instrumental in the build‑up, scored the opener and linked play intelligently.
• Imabari’s left‑back – energetic, provided the assist for the consolation goal and made several last‑ditch tackles.

Conclusion

The friendly gave both coaching staff valuable insights. Vissel Kobe will be pleased with their first‑half performance but will want to improve game management after the break. FC Imabari, meanwhile, showed they can compete with top‑flight opposition and will take confidence into their J3 season.