As another round of J. League games passes, another title contender emerges.

Gamba Osaka threw their hat into an already crowded ring with a 2-1 win over Kawasaki Frontale on Saturday, jumping into third place just one point behind Kashima Antlers in second and eight behind leaders Nagoya Grampus.

The win was Gamba's fourth in a row, and although it is hardly the first time a team has gathered momentum to climb the table this season, the pedigree of Akira Nishino's side deserves special attention.