Academy Report

Prince Takamado Cup Championship Report

On December 12, 2015, the Prince Takamado Cup Championship was held at Saitama Stadium 2002. Antlers Youth, who had won their first Prince Takamado Trophy U-18 Premier League EAST title a week earlier, clashed with Gamba Osaka Youth in a battle for their first-ever national championship.

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Antlers Youth starting lineup


Kick-off was at 1 PM. The match unfolded as a back-and-forth struggle, typical of a final, but Antlers Youth remained composed and played steadily, not succumbing to the pressure of the big stage.

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Kakita dribbling


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Yoshioka, notable for his aggressive breakthroughs


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Osato making a pass


The first half ended 0-0, and the decisive moment came in the second half. The long-awaited opening goal was scored in the 58th minute. After Nishimoto broke through on the left wing, Tanaka calmly slotted home with his right foot.

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Nishimoto's breakthrough that led to the goal


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Tanaka scoring the opening goal


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Celebrating with the players in the stands


With a one-goal lead, Antlers Youth effectively shut down Gamba Osaka Youth's counterattacks. Maintaining their concentration until the very end, they secured a 1-0 victory and their first championship title.

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Tanaka, who scored the winning goal and was named MVP


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Hirato, who supported the team as a defensive midfielder


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Machida challenging an opponent


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Shikama, who came on as a substitute in the second half


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Manager Kumagai and Captain Chiba in a tearful embrace


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Captain Chiba receiving the trophy from Her Imperial Highness Princess Hisako Takamado


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The moment of lifting the cup


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The four players promoted to the top team

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