Match Summary
Kashima defeated Sagan Tosu 2:1. The match was played in J1 League 2023. Goals were scored by Y. Higuchi 26′, Y. Narahara 66′, K. Chinen 80′ (pen.). 7 yellow cards were shown. Kashima had 45% possession while Sagan Tosu held 55%. Kashima had 12 shots (4 on target) compared to 11 (5 on target) for Sagan Tosu. Expected goals: Kashima 1.82 — Sagan Tosu 0.74. Kashima made 5 substitutions, Sagan Tosu made 5.
Match Events
Key match events between Kashima and Sagan Tosu — 3 goals and 7 cards recorded during the match.
assist: Diego Pituca
assist: Y. Naganuma
Penalty
Match Statistics
Kashima had 45% possession against Sagan Tosu's 55%. Kashima registered 12 shots (4 on target) while Sagan Tosu managed 11 (5 on target). Corner kicks: 4–5. Fouls committed: 11–16.
Lineups
Kashima lined up in a 4-4-2 formation under D. Iwamasa, while Sagan Tosu deployed a 4-2-3-1 under K. Kawai.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Kashima is 6.99, compared to — for Sagan Tosu. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Kashima's highest-rated starter is Y. Suzuki (7.24), while Sagan Tosu's best-rated player is —.
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Kashima have contributed 10 goals and 11 assists this season, led by Y. Suzuki (10G). Sagan Tosu's starters account for 0 goals and 0 assists, spearheaded by —. Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Kashima deploy 4 defenders rated 6.96 on average, against Sagan Tosu's 4-man backline averaging —. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Kashima field 4 midfielders averaging 6.79, versus Sagan Tosu's 5 rated —. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Kashima start 2 forward(s) averaging 7.24, compared to 1 for Sagan Tosu averaging —. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Discipline
Kashima's starters have collected 9 yellow cards this season, compared to 0 for Sagan Tosu. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Kashima's starting XI is 28.3 (youngest: I. Sekigawa (25), oldest: K. Anzai (30)), while Sagan Tosu average 31.7 (youngest: W. Harada (29), oldest: Park Il-Gyu (36)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Kashima's starters average 24 league appearances each, versus 0 for Sagan Tosu. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Kashima have recorded 3 wins, 3 draws and 0 defeats. Sagan Tosu show 1 wins, 2 draws and 3 losses from their last 6 outings.
Kashima
Sagan Tosu
API data: 15 Mar 2026