Football Season Guide

Secured their first-ever promotion to J2 in 2025. Offered excellent defending. Had by far the best record in J3 last season, only 23 goals conceded in 38 rounds, and this was enough for second place. Failed to back this form in spring. Mediocre displays and only 15 goals scored in 18 rounds saw them finish in the penultimate ninth place in their mini-league. As a result finished in the bottom 8 of the 40-team Vision League. Used the regulars in this tournament but the lack of cutting edge proved costly. Veteran striker Ryuji Sawakami, 32-years-old, netted 12 goals in J3 last term. He will be used a lot this season too as he is among the players with rich previous J2 experience. To help further with experience loaned in 4 players from J1 teams and they all should feature often. Also, to address the poor attack in spring signed 3 new centre forwards. Nakano was already present during the Vision League but he now made his move permanent. Overall, the squad is stronger than it was last season or even this spring. Remains to be seen if this will be enough for survival. The early rounds at home should draw large crowds with this being first-ever experience for the fans at such a high level.