Vissel Kobe moved back on top of the J-League first-division table Sunday after substitute Jean Patric's late strike delivered a 2-1 victory over Sagan Tosu.
Yokohama F Marinos' overnight loss to Kawasaki Frontale had opened the door for Kobe to retake first place with a win at Noevir Stadium, but the hosts initially had their hands full against a spirited Tosu outfit.
Cayman Togashi put the visitors ahead from the penalty spot in the 51st minute, although the lead stood for only two minutes before Yuya Osako equalized with his 14th goal of the campaign.
The former Japan striker was in the right place to find the net with his first touch off Daiju Sasaki's cutback from the left.
Osako was also involved in the 82nd-minute winner on a box-to-box counterattack, sending former Japan teammate Yoshinori Muto into space with a through ball.
While Muto's attempt on the break was blocked by Sagan keeper Park Il Gyu, Brazilian winger Jean Patric was on hand to tap in the rebound.
"Of course I'm happy with today's win, but it's a long season and there's still a lot left to do," Patric said. "We want to win a title for Kobe."
Other J1 results: Sanfrecce Hiroshima 1-1 Yokohama FC; FC Tokyo 1-3 Kashima Antlers; Shonan Bellmare 0-1 Avispa Fukuoka; Gamba Osaka 3-1 Kashiwa Reysol; Cerezo Osaka 2-0 Urawa Reds; Kyoto Sanga 2-1 Nagoya Grampus.
