Empress's Cup Showdown: INAC Kobe Leonessa Face Albirex Niigata Ladies in Crucial Clash
On December 7, 2025, INAC Kobe Leonessa, currently leading the WE League, will host Albirex Niigata Ladies in a highly anticipated Empress's Cup JFA Japan Women's Football Championship match at Noevir Stadium Kobe. This knockout tie is crucial for both sides, with INAC Kobe aiming to continue their dominant form and advance, while Albirex Niigata seeks to upset a top contender and make a deep run in the tournament.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
The Empress's Cup JFA Japan Women's Football Championship is one of Japan's most prestigious knockout tournaments for women's football, often considered the female counterpart to the Emperor's Cup. This match is a crucial fixture for both INAC Kobe Leonessa and Albirex Niigata Ladies, with advancement to the next round at stake. INAC Kobe Leonessa has been in sensational form during the current 2025-2026 WE League season, leading the standings with an impressive 34 points from 13 matches (11 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss). They will look to translate their league dominance into cup success, aiming for a potential double. Albirex Niigata Ladies, currently sitting fifth in the WE League with 19 points from 13 matches (6 wins, 1 draw, 6 losses), face a significant challenge against the league leaders. For Albirex, the Empress's Cup represents an opportunity to challenge a top-tier team in a knockout setting and add silverware to their season.
Recent Form
INAC Kobe Leonessa enters this match in stellar form, having secured four wins and one loss in their last five official matches. Their recent Empress's Cup victories over teams like Omiya Ardija and Nihon University underscore their potent attack and solid defense. Their only recent setback was a league defeat to Sanfrecce Hiroshima. This team is currently operating at a high level and is considered a strong contender for the Empress's Cup title. Albirex Niigata Ladies' recent form has been more inconsistent, with three wins and two losses in their last five outings. While they have notched Empress's Cup wins against Mynavi Sendai and Niigata UHW, they suffered defeats to Cerezo Osaka and INAC Kobe itself earlier in the season. The visitors will need to find greater consistency to pose a serious threat to the league leaders.
Key Players & Injury News
INAC Kobe Leonessa boasts a strong roster with several key players. Tamaki Okuma was a standout scorer in the 2024/2025 WE League Cup, while Carlota Suárez led the team in goals during the 2024/2025 WE League season. Their collective strength has been a cornerstone of their league success. For Albirex Niigata Ladies, attackers such as Yuina Yamamoto and Yume Takikawa, who have each scored 3 goals in the 2025/2026 season, will be crucial. Veteran midfielder Nahomi Kawasumi is also a key player, leading the team in assists and appearances in the 2025/2026 WE League. Notably, defender Ayaka Michigami transferred from INAC Kobe to Albirex Niigata in October 2025, adding an interesting dynamic to this encounter. As this match is scheduled well in advance, there are no specific major injury reports for either team at this time.