Vissel Kobe Wins J-League Title for the First Time in History
Vissel Kobe made history by winning the J-League title for the first time. This achievement comes five months after Spanish and Barcelona legend, Andres Iniesta, left the Japanese club.
Kobe’s Improved Form After Dropping Iniesta
Kobe’s performance significantly improved after manager coach Takayuki Yoshida made the decision to drop Iniesta. Iniesta joined Emirates Club in the UAE Pro League in August, and since then, Kobe’s form has been on the rise.
Kobe sealed the title with a 2-1 victory over Nagoya Grampus, leaving them with a game to spare.
“I’ve never experienced this kind of happiness before,” said captain Hotaru Yamaguchi. “The emotion started to come out about five minutes before the final whistle. I’m just so happy.”
Haruya Ide and former Newcastle striker Yoshinori Muto were the goal scorers for Kobe at the Noevir Stadium, securing an unassailable four-point lead over second-placed Yokohama F Marinos.
Former Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata, who joined Kobe from Galatasaray in September, was an unused substitute in the match.