KASHIMA, Ibaraki Pref. -- After Jubilo's victory on Saturday, Iwata manager Masakazu Suzuki -- in referring to the first-stage title race -- reminded us that you never know what may happen in soccer. On Sunday, it was the Yokohama F. Marinos manager Lazaroni's turn to say so after bowing to the Kashima Antlers 2-1 at Kashima Stadium.
Kashima midfielder Masashi Motoyama struck the winner in the 76th minute after collecting a stray pass from Yokohama defender Naza.
Yokohama's loss, its first of the season, handed first-stage title rival Jubilo a big advantage with a one-point lead in the standings.
Next Saturday, the final day of the stage, the Marinos have to win in 90 minutes while relying on Jubilo to draw or lose in order to take the crown. If Jubilo wins in extra time (two points) and the Marinos win in 90 minutes (three points), the two teams will be equal on points. Jubilo however, has a superior goal difference and thus would capture the title.
Jubilo will visit Kashiwa Reysol at the Kashiwa-no-ha Stadium while the Marinos will host Shimizu S-Pulse at National Stadium in Tokyo.
Kashima defender Augusto scored the opener in the 54th minute, blasting a Motoyama cross from the close range.
The Marinos equalized in the 71st minute when Naza banged in a loose ball from a corner.