On August 18th at 6 PM, Ehime FC will host Oita Trinita in the J2 League’s 27th round.
Ehime FC suffered their second consecutive defeat in the J2 League’s 26th round, losing 1-2 away to Iwaki FC. Despite equalizing through a solo effort from young forward Kaito Soda, Ehime conceded a late own goal by defender Masaki Tanioka. Regarding the team’s current form, Ehime head coach Kiyotaka Ishimaru stated, “We need more courage to take on challenges head-on. Our next opponent, Oita, was a very promising team from the start, and they have high quality regardless of who starts. They’re a very tough opponent to handle.”
Currently, Ehime FC sits 11th in the J2 League table with 9 wins, 7 draws, and 10 losses. As a promoted team, they hold a 9-point advantage over the relegation zone, making early survival highly likely. In their 13 home games this season, Ehime has achieved a record of 5 wins, 4 draws, and 4 losses, averaging 1.3 goals per game – a notable achievement in the competitive J2 League. However, in their last two home games, Ehime lost to Gunma Grasshopper and Tokushima Vortis without scoring a single goal, indicating a slight decline in form.
In terms of lineup, Ehime’s main striker, Ben Duncan, is likely to miss the game due to injury. Attacker Taiga Ishiura is also suspended due to a red card for violent conduct. However, young forward Kaito Soda, who has been heavily relied upon in the attack, is integrating well with the existing team system. Veteran Tsuyoshi Matsuda is also showing strong offensive potential.
Visiting Oita Trinita secured a 2-1 comeback victory over their Kyushu Derby rivals Kumamoto Deep Red in their last game. Goals from key midfielder Kenjin Toda and Brazilian centre-back Matheus Pereira in the final stages secured the win. Both goals were scored with aerial prowess, leaving Kumamoto’s defense helpless. Oita head coach Tomohiro Katano said after the match, “We knew before the game that Kumamoto was weak in defending set pieces. I’m very happy that Pereira was able to score goals with his height advantage. We can gain confidence by consistently winning these hard-fought matches and showcasing our own style of football.”
Oita Trinita is currently in 15th place in the J2 League table with 7 wins, 10 draws, and 9 losses, only 6 points ahead of the relegation zone. In their 12 away games this season, Oita Trinita has secured an impressive record of 5 wins, 3 draws, and 4 losses, ranking 10th in terms of away points. Notably, Oita Trinita will face Kyoto Sanga in the Emperor’s Cup and then face tough opponents Okayama Green and Chiba Jets in the league, making their schedule quite challenging.
In terms of lineup, Oita Trinita will still be missing foreign players Samuel, attacker Shigeki Mezaki, defender Kenzo Hada, and left-back Junki Sakae. Right wing-back Yusei Yashiki has been ruled out for the season, confirming his absence.
In their previous 15 encounters, Ehime FC holds a slight advantage with 6 wins, 5 draws, and 4 losses. In this round, Ehime FC is determined to end their losing streak at home. Can Oita Trinita overcome their injury woes and secure a victory in the land of oranges?
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