Yokohama Marinos looked to be in pretty bad shape last Saturday when they lost 1:3 at home to Machida Zevia, leaving them with only 1 win in 9 matches.
In my opinion, the defensive alertness of several Brazilian players in the Mariners' front line is quite poor, which has become one of the reasons for the team's current slump. In addition, they are not balanced enough in their positions when they lose possession of the ball, allowing their opponents to take advantage of the situation.
Seeing this, Takuya Kita will play an important role in controlling the changes in the team's offense and defense. He is responsible for the team's offensive and defensive balance and will need to regain possession of the ball as high up the field as possible.
Sanfrecce Hiroshima are unbeaten in their last four league matches, winning three of them, after a 4-1 thumping of Tokyo Green last weekend.
I think the key to Sanfrecce's win was the intense defense shown from the front. At the same time, the defense, led by the three centers and the goalie, was very stable.
Pyros Sudirio had a great game in the win, scoring twice individually. I expect him to be the most threatening player in terms of goals for the team today. The striker has been brave in recent situations and has been quite cooperative with the whole team. Not only has he contributed in the goal scoring numbers, but he has also robbed the defense against the opposition in front of the net.
As Yokohama Marinos are not doing well in attacking and defending against opponents' counter attacks, I believe Sanfrecce Hiroshima will have an advantage in organizing their defense. I expect the visitors Sanfrecce Hiroshima to win 3 points in the end.
