Tokyo Verdy claimed the scalp of J1 champions Kashima Antlers on Saturday as a "golden goal" from defender Atsushi Yoneyama gave the home side a 2-1 win and its first points since moving from Todoroki Stadium in the preseason.
Meanwhile, former Japan coach Takeshi Okada's Consadole Sapporo won for the second straight week following their return to the first division, defeating highly fancied Kashiwa Reysol 2-1 thanks to two first-half goals from Brazilian striker Will.
At Tokyo Stadium, Kashima took the lead against the run of play when midfield star Mitsuo Ogasawara fired home from the edge of the box in the 27th minute after Verdy goalkeeper Kenji Honnami had completely misjudged a cross from the left.