 Osaka lost as Fukuoka drew, meaning they finished level on points.However, Avispa clinched the 16th place on account of their superior goal difference of -24 as opposed to Cerezo's of -26.The same situation was occurring in the J2 promotion race, with three clubs, Yokohama F.C., Kashiwa Reysol, and Vissel Kobe way ahead of other clubs, but only two automatic promotion sports available.