40 tiny steps, 1 big point (Kashiwa Reysol vs Albirex Niigata analysis) | OneFootball

Reysol and Niigata Share Points in Tense Encounter

Komi's Unique Penalty Technique Steals Spotlight in 1-1 Draw

Kashiwa Reysol's impressive unbeaten run stretched to seven matches, though manager Ricardo Rodríguez will be left pondering how to convert draws into wins after his side were held to a 1-1 stalemate by struggling Albirex Niigata at Hitachi Kashiwa Stadium.

The result sees Reysol slip from third to fourth in the J1 League standings, while Niigata remain entrenched near the relegation zone despite taking a first-half lead.

Penalty Drama

The visitors broke the deadlock in the 12th minute through Yota Komi's penalty. The forward's distinctive spot-kick routine – featuring an extraordinary 40 small steps in his run-up – once again proved effective as he maintained his perfect penalty record since turning professional.

Reysol, who have built their season on defensive resilience, eventually found an equaliser but couldn't complete the comeback despite dominating possession for extended periods.

Contrasting Fortunes

The draw tells the story of both teams' seasons thus far. Kashiwa have established themselves as one of the league's most organised sides, losing just once in their opening 12 fixtures. However, this was their sixth draw of the campaign – a statistic that threatens to undermine their title aspirations.

For Niigata, managed by Daisuke Kimori, the result represents another missed opportunity. Despite taking the lead, they couldn't secure just their second win of the season, intensifying pressure on Kimori as questions about tactical direction and player confidence grow among supporters.

Injury Concerns

Kashiwa continue to cope without left-back Daiki Sugioka, who remains sidelined with a hamstring injury that is expected to keep him out for three months since early April. The defender had been a regular starter following his winter move from Shonan Bellmare.

Niigata received a boost with midfielder Yuji Hoshi continuing his integration back into the team following his own hamstring issues, while defenders Shusuke Arai and Shusuke Shimizu are reportedly nearing full fitness.

Community Spirit

Off the pitch, Reysol continued their tradition of community engagement, with midfielder Yushi Yamada contributing to the club's regular charity auction. The initiative, which runs until April 28, supports local welfare and ticket donations in the Kashiwa area.