On Saturday, June 22, 2024, Jubilo Iwata will face Cerezo Osaka in a crucial J. League clash at the Yamaha Stadium.
The match features two teams with contrasting fortunes: Jubilo Iwata, currently in 16th place, battling relegation, and Cerezo Osaka, sitting comfortably in sixth and pushing for a top-three finish.
Current Form
Jubilo Iwata
Jubilo Iwata has struggled this season, recording only five wins, four draws, and nine losses.
Their recent form highlights their inconsistency, as they have not won in their last four matches across all competitions.
Scoring has been a particular issue for the team, managing just one goal per game at home.
Despite these struggles, their defence showed resilience in their last match, earning a point against a top-half team but conceding an 84th-minute equalizer.
Jubilo Iwata J. League form: LLDWLD
Cerezo Osaka
In stark contrast, Cerezo Osaka comes into this match on a four-match unbeaten run in the league.
Their recent success has seen them rise to sixth place, with the potential to climb higher with a win this weekend.
Cerezo’s attack has been potent, with key players like Lucas Fernandes and Hayato Okuda making significant contributions.
However, three of their four losses this season have occurred away from home, which could be a point of concern.
Cerezo Osaka J. League form: LLWDDW
Team News
Jubilo Iwata
Jubilo Iwata will be without Ryo Germain, who is sidelined with a fractured frontal bone.
Coach Akinobu Yokouchi may stick with an unchanged lineup from their last match, hoping for a more disciplined performance to secure points.
Possible Starting XI: Kawashima; Uemura, Suzuki, Graca, Matsubara; Uehara, Gomes; Hirakawa, Yamada, Matsumoto; Peixoto
Cerezo Osaka
Cerezo Osaka will likely rely on their attacking trio of Leo Ceara, Fernandes, and Capixaba.
Leo Ceara, the team’s leading scorer with 13 goals, will be crucial in their quest for victory.
Possible Starting XI: Kim; Okuda, Nishio, Toriumi, Funaki; Tanaka, Okuno; Fernandes, Bueno, Capixaba; Leo
Prediction
Considering the current form and league standings, Cerezo Osaka is favoured to win this encounter.
Their recent performances suggest they can continue their unbeaten run, while Jubilo Iwata’s inconsistency and scoring woes could hinder their chances.
Our Prediction: Jubilo Iwata 1-2 Cerezo Osaka