Kashima Antlers secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Avispa Fukuoka at the Kashima Soccer Stadium, in a J1 League encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The hosts drew first blood in the 31st minute through T. Nara, only for Avispa to equalize just before halftime courtesy of S. Morooka in the 43rd minute. Kashima then unleashed a decisive second-half surge, with Leo Ceara restoring their lead in the 60th minute, assisted by Y. Matsumura. A. Cavric extended their advantage in the 64th minute, set up by Y. Suzuki. Despite Avispa pulling one back late on through a Leo Ceara own goal in the 76th minute, Kashima held firm to clinch all three points in a hard-fought contest.