There will be many more twists and turns before this season's J. League title is won, but after opening up a four-point gap at the top of the table, the balance of power is steadily shifting Sanfrecce Hiroshima's way.

A 2-0 win over Albirex Niigata coupled with a scoreless draw between nearest challengers Vegalta Sendai and Kashiwa Reysol on Saturday allowed Sanfrecce to seize the initiative in the championship race, consolidating a takeover bid that has slowly but surely been building since the start of the season.

Vegalta may have established themselves as the early frontrunners — grabbing top spot on the second weekend and holding it until the 18th round — but Sanfrecce have been on their shoulder every step of the way. Hajime Moriyasu's side spent six weeks in second place before wresting control away from Vegalta on July 14, and although the lead has changed hands several times since then, the momentum is clearly with Sanfrecce.