Dramatic Shifts in Asian Football Leagues: J-League Surprises and K-League Climbers
The Kashima Antlers maintained J-League leadership despite a draw, as Vissel Kobe slipped to fourth. Gimcheon Sangmu's triumph over Ulsan tightened the K-League race, while Meizhou Hakka escaped Chinese Super League relegation with a vital win.

In the J-League, Kashima Antlers managed to extend their lead to five points despite a goalless draw with Gamba Osaka. Their closest challengers, Vissel Kobe, suffered a 1-0 loss to Urawa Red Diamonds, allowing Kyoto Sanga to move into second place.
The K-League saw Gimcheon Sangmu defeating defending champions Ulsan HD 3-0, reducing the gap with leaders Jeonbuk Motors, who drew 1-1 with Jeju SK.
In the Chinese Super League, Meizhou Hakka climbed out of the relegation zone with a narrow 1-0 victory over Qingdao Hainiu, thanks to a crucial goal by Yue Tze-nam.
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