On August 17th at 5pm, Kashima Antlers will host their old rivals Urawa Reds at the Ibaraki Kashima Stadium in the J1 League’s 27th round.
Kashima Antlers suffered an upset loss last weekend in the 26th round of the J1 League, losing 1-2 away to a depleted Jubilo Iwata. Despite losing two key strikers in Pecsonto and Germán, Iwata managed to penetrate Kashima’s defense multiple times through crosses from the wings, causing an unexpected defeat for Kashima, who had been expected to win easily. In his post-match interview, Kashima coach Boško Bošković stated: “We will analyze what caused our lack of energy today. We tried to stick to our style, but the weather is getting hotter and hotter, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to maintain our aggression for 90 minutes.”
Currently, Kashima Antlers are ranked second in the J1 League standings with 14 wins, 5 draws, and 7 losses. They are just 3 points behind leaders Machida Zelvia, but their goal difference isn’t favorable, meaning even a win this round may not be enough for them to take the top spot. In their 13 home games this season, Kashima Antlers have an undefeated record of 9 wins and 4 draws, conceding an average of less than 0.8 goals per game. Their defense has been extremely strong, thanks in part to Bošković’s ability to inspire his team’s fighting spirit in home games. In their previous three home games, Kashima Antlers conceded only one goal against Sapporo Consadole, FC Tokyo, and Sagan Tosu, three attacking teams. This demonstrates their defensive solidity.
In terms of the squad, Kashima Antlers’ foreign striker, Kaverić, and backup goalkeeper, Kajiyama Yuto, are likely to miss the game again. Milosavljević, the team’s other foreign attacker, has already returned from injury in previous games but only made a substitute appearance in the final minutes, without much impact. Additionally, it has been confirmed that Hayato Nakama, who was absent from the last game due to poor physical condition, has returned to the squad, which will provide some help to Kashima’s attack. The summer transfer addition, Hyosuke Tagawa, is also set to make his debut.
Urawa Reds had a disappointing performance in the last round of the J1 League, drawing 1-1 away to Sagan Tosu, a team battling relegation. Their veteran captain, Shusaku Nishikawa, received a red card in the 79th minute, which was the first red card of his long professional career. The red card was given to Nishikawa because of a missed header clearance by Urawa defender, Riho Inoue, who was also criticized by many hardcore fans after the match. However, Urawa coach, Maciej Skorża, was still positive about the game: “I think we controlled the tempo from the start. We are moving in the right direction. I think we can produce some good things if we consider strengthening the connection between players.”
Currently in the J1 League standings, Urawa Reds are in 11th place with 9 wins, 7 draws, and 9 losses, trailing the championship group by 12 points. Their chances of qualifying for the AFC Champions League next season are slim. In their 12 away games this season, Urawa Reds have only managed 3 wins, 4 draws, and 5 losses, with their away scoring ability ranking 17th in the league, even worse than Kyoto Sanga, who are in the relegation zone. However, in their last three away games, Urawa Reds have only conceded one goal from a penalty against Sagan Tosu, while not conceding any goals in open play in the other two games, showing signs of improvement.
In terms of the squad, Urawa Reds will be without goalkeeper Nishikawa, meaning backup goalkeeper, Ayumu Shiokawa, is expected to start. Shiokawa played in all the friendly matches during the break and is in good form. Furthermore, Urawa coach, Maciej Skorża, spoke about the arrangement of midfielders in Urawa’s squad following the departure of captain Atsuki Ito during the break. The Nordic coach believes that the substitute player, Kaido Anzai, might be considered as a replacement for Ito.
In their previous 20 encounters, Kashima Antlers have the edge with 9 wins, 7 draws, and 4 losses. This round of the J1 League is the Japanese version of the “Double Red” match. Kashima Antlers will aim to get back on the winning track with the home advantage. Can Urawa, who have lost their captain, Nishikawa, maintain their defensive form and earn points on the road?
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