KASHIMA, Ibaraki Pref. — Kashima Antlers opened up a seven-point lead at the top of the J. League with a 1-0 win over Jubilo Iwata on Saturday.

Antlers went ahead through a 39th-minute Shinzo Koroki goal in the first round of play since the international break, and held on to grind out their sixth league win in a row and 11th undefeated.

Albirex Niigata beat Gamba Osaka 2-0 to leapfrog Urawa Reds into second on goal difference, although Reds have the chance to redress the balance against Yokohama F. Marinos on Sunday.