Albiceleste Niigata demand clarification after cup defeat

Albiceleste Niigata announced on 30 September that it has formally questioned the refereeing of its 0‑1 defeat to Matsumoto Yamaga FC on 29 September, urging fans to refrain from excessive criticism while the club pursues clarification.

Formal inquiry to governing bodies

The club lodged a request with the Japan Football Association and the J.League in accordance with established procedures, citing the incident in the 88th minute when a cross struck an opponent’s arm inside the penalty area but was not awarded a penalty.

Despite the protest from Niigata players, the match concluded without a penalty decision and the result stood.

President Yosuke Nozawa expressed regret over the cup exit, thanked supporters for their vocal backing, and stressed that the focus should remain on the team’s performance rather than on the decision.

He also appealed for restraint in any personal attacks on officials, urging that criticism be directed constructively toward the club’s future battles.