FC Imabari 1–2 Kamatamare Sanuki | J2/J3 100 Year Vision League | 17 May 2026

Kamatamare Sanuki edged a tense Shikoku derby at Imabari's home ground, coming from a goal down to secure a 2‑1 victory in the J2/J3 100 Year Vision League. The match, played in front of a passionate crowd of 3,200, was typical of the competitive spirit that defines this regional rivalry.

Imabari Start Brightly

FC Imabari took the lead in the 14th minute through a stunning strike from midfielder Shota Kikuchi. Picking up a loose ball 25 metres from goal, Kikuchi curled a first‑time effort into the top corner, leaving Sanuki goalkeeper Kaito Kumagai with no chance. The home side looked dangerous on the break and could have doubled their lead if not for a fine save by Kumagai from forward Yuki Matsubara's close‑range header.

Sanuki Fight Back

Kamatamare Sanuki gradually worked their way into the match, using the flanks to stretch Imabari's defence. The equaliser arrived in the 43rd minute when right‑back Hiroshi Nakano latched onto a cut‑back from winger Tsubasa Endo and drove a low shot past home keeper Ryo Goto. The goal gave Sanuki momentum heading into the interval.

Decisive Second Half

The visitors completed the turnaround nine minutes after the restart. A long throw‑in into the box was not properly cleared, and Kamatamare captain Yusuke Tanaka stabbed the ball home from six yards after a goalmouth scramble. Imabari pushed for an equaliser but lacked precision in the final third, with their best chance a late header that glanced wide of the post.

Post‑Match Significance

The win moved Kamatamare Sanuki into the top half of the 100 Year Vision League table, while FC Imabari slipped to 14th place. The result also extended Sanuki's unbeaten streak against Imabari to three matches, reinforcing their status as the more experienced side in the region. Both teams return to action next weekend, with Imabari seeking a response on the road against Gainare Tottori.