Thespa Kusatsu Gunma and FC Gifu played out a 1-1 draw in a J3 League fixture on May 3, 2025. The match was a competitive derby-style encounter where both teams had periods of dominance but ultimately had to settle for a point each. Thespa took the lead against the run of play in the first half, scoring from their first meaningful attack. FC Gifu responded strongly and deservedly equalized before the break after sustained pressure. The second half was more cagey, with both teams wary of making a mistake that could cost them the match, leading to fewer clear chances. The key moment was a brilliant save by the Gifu goalkeeper in the final minutes to deny Thespa a winner from a free-kick. The result did little to alter either team's position in the middle of the J3 League table, with both needing wins to make a push for promotion. Both coaches acknowledged the competitive nature of the match and the fairness of the draw.