The Suruga Bank Championship 2018 took place at Yanmar Stadium Nagai on Wednesday night, with Cerezo Osaka losing 0-1 to Argentina’s C.A. Independiente.

With a starting lineup completely changed from their usual J1 League starters, Cerezo struggled against pressure from the Argentines from the outset. 

Goalkeeper Kenta Tanno and his back line managed to prevent several scoring opportunities, but in the 28th minute their luck ran out as Sergio Romero scored the opener.

Cerezo saw their possession time increase in the second half as Atomu Tanaka and Souza came in, but the team was unable to create any clear chances on goal. Rookie Mizuki Ando saw his shot go regrettably wide in the 75th minute.

Despite Cerezo pushing hard in the closing stages, Independiente held on to protect their one goal lead and claim their first Suruga title in their second appearance.