Gamba Osaka jumped to fourth on the J-League table with a 2-1 win away at Albirex Niigata.
Brazilian striker Lucas got the visitors off to a great start with a goal in just the first minute before midfielder Takahiro Futagawa doubled the lead minute before half-time.
The home side attempted gallantly to get themselves back in the match and were given an opportunity when Pedro Junior converted a 70th minute penalty to make it 2-1.
However, Gamba held on for an important victory that sees the join Niigata on 36 points, 11 in arrears of runaway leader Kashima Antlers.