Gamba Osaka attacker Isa Sakamoto netted for the second week in a row to clinch his side a 1-0 win away to traditional rivals Urawa Reds on Saturday.
The 20-year-old Gamba academy product sealed the points for Spanish manager Dani Poyatos' team in the 78th minute of the J-League first-division clash with an assured finish against the run of play.
With Saitama Stadium a sea of red for the grudge match, Urawa dominated possession but failed to convert a number of chances to swing the contest in their favor.
Reds midfielder Atsuki Ito steered a header into the woodwork before Sakamoto struck on a counterattack, controlling on the turn and threading his shot past two defenders and keeper Shusaku Nishikawa.
Sakamoto, who spent last season on loan with second-division Fagiano Okayama, doubled his J1 tally after opening his account in last Sunday's 2-1 win against Sagan Tosu.
"I'm really happy," he said. "I want to contribute to Gamba every single game after coming up through their academy and developing so much thanks to them."
In other J1 action, Sanfrecce Hiroshima stayed unbeaten after Shuto Nakano's equalizer salvaged a 1-1 draw away to Consadole Sapporo, while reigning champions Vissel Kobe claimed a 1-0 road win against Shonan Bellmare thanks to Yoshinori Muto's injury-time goal.
