JEF United Ichihara Chiba Ladies Edge INAC Kobe Leonessa in Five-Goal Nadeshiko League Cup Thriller

JEF United Ichihara Chiba Ladies secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over INAC Kobe Leonessa in the Japanese Nadeshiko League Cup on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, at the Fukuda Denshi Arena. The match, which kicked off at 15:00 local time, was a pulsating contest that saw the home side twice surrender the lead before finding a late winner.

Match Overview

JEF United started the brighter of the two sides, pressing high and forcing INAC Kobe into early mistakes. Their attacking intent was rewarded in the 12th minute when forward Miki Ito curled a shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the box. INAC Kobe, however, responded well, equalising in the 28th minute through a header from their captain, Yuki Nagasato. The visitors then took the lead just before half-time when a quick counter-attack was finished off by Mina Tanaka.

The second half was a different story. JEF United came out with renewed vigour, equalising in the 61st minute via a penalty from Akari Kurishima. Both teams traded blows, creating chances, but it was JEF who found the decisive moment in the 84th minute when substitute Yui Narumiya slotted home from close range. INAC Kobe pushed for a late equaliser but were denied by a combination of resolute defending and fine goalkeeping.

Key Moments

• 12' — Goal (JEF): Miki Ito opens the scoring with a precise finish.
• 28' — Goal (INAC): Yuki Nagasato heads in from a corner.
• 44' — Goal (INAC): Mina Tanaka finishes a swift counter.
• 61' — Goal (JEF): Akari Kurishima converts a penalty after a foul in the box.
• 84' — Goal (JEF): Yui Narumiya scores the winner.
• 90+3' — Save: JEF goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita tips a shot over the bar.

Tactical Story

JEF United lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, looking to use width and quick transitions. Their midfield duo of Kurishima and Ito controlled the tempo, while the full-backs provided overlapping runs. INAC Kobe, playing a 4-4-2, relied on the pace of Tanaka and the experience of Nagasato to hit on the break. The game was a tactical battle, with both managers making impactful substitutions. JEF's decision to bring on Narumiya proved decisive, as her fresh legs exploited tired INAC legs.

Standout Players

Miki Ito (JEF): Opened the scoring and was a constant threat. Akari Kurishima (JEF): Commanded the midfield and scored the equalising penalty. Yuki Nagasato (INAC): Rolled back the years with a fine header and intelligent link-up play. Ayaka Yamashita (JEF): Made crucial saves, especially late on.

Cup Context

The Nadeshiko League Cup is a prestigious knockout competition in Japanese women's football, and this result boosts JEF United's hopes of progress. INAC Kobe Leonessa, one of the most successful clubs in the country, will be disappointed to drop points, but they remain a force in the league. JEF's victory is a statement of intent, showcasing their ability to compete with the top sides. The win moves them into a strong position in their group, while INAC must regroup quickly.

JEF United will look to build on this performance in their next fixture, while INAC Kobe will be determined to bounce back. The five-goal thriller was a fantastic advertisement for the Nadeshiko League Cup and highlighted the depth of talent in the Japanese women's game.