AS Elfen Saitama Stuns Mynavi Sendai Ladies with Comeback Victory

AS Elfen Saitama overturned a halftime deficit to beat Mynavi Sendai Ladies 3‑2 in a thrilling Women Empowerment League encounter on May 16, 2026. The result sees Elfen Saitama climb to fourth place, while Sendai drop to sixth after a disappointing collapse.

The first half belonged to the home side. Mynavi Sendai started brightly and took the lead in the 8th minute through a well‑placed shot from the edge of the area. They doubled their advantage in the 35th minute when a corner was headed in by their centre‑back. At 2‑0, it seemed that Sendai would cruise to victory, but Elfen Saitama had other ideas.

Just before halftime, the visitors pulled one back. A swift break down the right wing ended with a low cross that was slotted home, giving Elfen Saitama a lifeline. After the restart, they came out with renewed energy. The equalizer arrived in the 56th minute—a speculative long‑range effort that took a deflection and looped over the Sendai goalkeeper. The momentum had shifted completely.

Elfen Saitama completed the comeback in the 73rd minute. A free‑kick from a dangerous position was whipped into the box, and the defender rose highest to nod the ball into the net. Mynavi Sendai pushed for an equalizer in the final stages, but Elfen’s defense held firm to secure three valuable points.

Turning Points:

• Halftime Goal: Elfen’s strike just before the break changed the complexion of the game.
• Second‑Half Surge: The visitors dominated after the interval, showing superior fitness and desire.
• Defensive Lapses: Sendai’s inability to manage the game after going 2‑0 up cost them dearly.

The defeat is a bitter pill for Mynavi Sendai Ladies, who had controlled the first 45 minutes. AS Elfen Saitama’s resilience marks them as a team to watch as the Women Empowerment League season heats up.