Kashima Antlers Tsukuba Junior claimed their second spring national championship in four editions on May 5, defeating Kawasaki Frontale U-12 in the final of the JA Zen-Noh Cup National Elementary School Selection Soccer Tournament at Nissan Stadium. The victory marked a redemption arc for the Kashima side after they had lost to the same Kawasaki team in the Kanto regional final earlier in the season. That setback had cost them the regional title, but they regrouped and earned a berth to the national tournament as the Kanto second representative.
The final was a tightly contested affair between two familiar opponents. Kawasaki Frontale U-12 entered as the Kanto first representative and were considered favorites, but Kashima Antlers Tsukuba Junior executed a disciplined game plan. They managed to secure the victory and lift the trophy, exacting revenge for the earlier loss.
This triumph is the club's second national spring title, with their first coming four tournaments ago in the 2022 edition. The achievement underscores the strength of Kashima Antlers' youth development system, which continues to produce talented young players. The Kanto region, known for its competitive youth leagues, had both finalists, highlighting the area's strong football culture.
The JA Zen-Noh Cup, officially named the All-Japan Agricultural Cooperatives Cup, is a prestigious tournament for elementary school-aged players. It brings together regional champions from across Japan, with teams competing in a knockout format to determine the national champion. The spring edition is often called the "Spring National Championship" and is one of the most sought-after titles in youth football.
The match took place at Nissan Stadium in Yokohama, a venue that has hosted numerous international fixtures, including matches during the 2019 Rugby World Cup and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics football tournament. For these young athletes, playing on such a grand stage provides a memorable experience.
Kashima Antlers Tsukuba Junior's journey to the title included overcoming tough opponents from other regions. Their path featured a blend of tactical discipline and individual skill, characteristics instilled by their coaching staff. The team's ability to bounce back from the regional final defeat and win on the national stage speaks to their mental fortitude.
The tournament concluded with Kashima Antlers Tsukuba Junior being crowned the spring national champions for the 2026 edition. As they celebrated, the players and coaching staff acknowledged the support of their families and local community.
Based on reporting from サッカーキング.