The J. League clash between Vissel Kobe and Kashima Antlers is set to take place this Sunday at the NOEVIR Stadium Kobe.
With both teams vying for a top position, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Here’s an in-depth look at the teams, their current form, and predictions for the game.
Team Form and Recent Performances
Vissel Kobe
Vissel Kobe, currently in fourth place, have struggled in recent fixtures. They have secured just one win in their last six league matches.
Despite their poor run of form, their recent performances show signs of improvement. In their last two matches against top teams Machida Zelvia and Gamba Osaka, Vissel Kobe dominated the play but were unfortunate not to secure more than a single point.
They were held to a 0-0 draw against Machida Zelvia and lost 2-1 to Gamba Osaka, despite creating numerous chances.
Recent League Form: LLDWLD
Kashima Antlers
Kashima Antlers, on the other hand, have been in excellent form, remaining unbeaten in their last 11 J. League fixtures.
They have climbed up the table from eighth place to second, showcasing their consistency and strength.
However, they have drawn their last three matches, which might be a slight concern for the team as they aim to maintain their momentum.
Recent League Form: WWWDDD
Team News and Lineups
Vissel Kobe
Vissel Kobe are expected to stick with a similar lineup despite their recent struggles in front of goal.
Haruya Ide and Takahiro Ogihara were absent in the last game but could return to the starting eleven.
Brazilian forward Jean Patric, who replaced Yuya Osako in the previous match, is likely to keep his place.
Possible Starting Lineup: Maekawa; Sakai, Kikuchi, Thuler, Hatsuse; Ideguchi, Yamaguchi; Muto, Miyashiro, Patric; Sasaki.
Kashima Antlers
Kashima Antlers are expected to field the same starting eleven for the tenth consecutive match. Yuma Suzuki, with ten goals this season, will be a key player to watch.
Possible Starting Lineup: Hayakawa; Nono, Ueda, Sekigawa, Anzai; Sano, Chinen; Morooka, Nago, Nakama; Suzuki.
Match Prediction
Given Vissel Kobe's recent improvements but ongoing struggles and Kashima Antlers' strong unbeaten run, this match is poised to be competitive.
Despite Vissel Kobe’s home advantage, their poor home form this season and Kashima Antlers' solid away record suggest that the visitors might edge out a victory.
Vissel 
Kashima 
