Levain Cup: Cerezo Osaka beat Fujieda 2-1
In a rain-soaked Levain Cup 1st-round tie, Cerezo Osaka defeated Fujieda MYFC 2-1 to reach the third round. Pablo Saback opened the scoring with his first goal for the club, and Lucas Fernández delivered a 1-goal, 1-assist performance. After conceding an equalizer from a foul in the box, Fernández won and converted the penalty to restore the lead and secure the win.
Source: スポーツナビ（Yahoo!）
Gamba Osaka celebrates 35th anniversary
Gamba Osaka marked its 35th anniversary on October 1, posting on official social channels to thank supporters and pledge further progress. The club reflected on its history since its 1991 founding and vowed to write new chapters. Supporters responded with numerous congratulatory messages expressing continued loyalty.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Nagatomo thanks hometown banner, vows to return
FC Tokyo defender Yuto Nagatomo posted on social media to thank supporters in his native Ehime for a banner reading “We are waiting for Yuto Nagatomo,” and pledged, “I will come back.” Nagatomo suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury on September 12 and is sidelined long-term, but the banner and hometown support bolstered his determination. FC Tokyo beat Ehime 2-0 to progress in the Levain Cup.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Japan beat Ecuador on penalties (5–4)
At the Kirin Cup on October 1 at Nissan Stadium, Japan and Ecuador ended 0–0 after 90 minutes before Japan prevailed 5–4 in the penalty shootout. Goalkeeper Ayen Suzuki made a key save in the shootout; Japan’s shootout victory was its first since 2011. Yokohama F. Marinos forward Kaina Tanimura earned his first start for the national team and drew strong cheers from the crowd.
Source: 日刊スポーツ