On Sunday, Tokyo Green defeated defending champion Kobe Victory Ship 1-0 and managed to record their first win in the last four league matches.
The key to Green's win was overseeing a change in the team's defensive system by Fukuhojojo. The players clearly know that they work one-on-one. They should keep a close eye on the three powerful opposing forwards, Daisho Miyashiro, Kaki Muto, and Isamu Osako. The same goes for the offense. They have a lot of good guys in their lineup. I think this battle will pose the biggest goal threat to the team. He's been very consistent lately, doesn't lose possession easily, and is able to deal with opponents in the box with power and individual skill.
Last weekend Hokkaido Sapporo Gonzaga lost three games at home 0: at the feet of Kashima Antlers and won only one of their last nine matches, causing the team to drop to the top 2 of the league table.
The most important issue they need to address now is striking a balance on defense. Too often, Gonzaga's players worry too much about the opposing strikers so that other players from the other team can find openings in dangerous areas and end up causing problems for their own defense. As for the front line, Soracha is a superb shot and has the ability to score a variety of goals. I expect him to be the most threatening player in the visitors' offense.
Both sides have the same offensive power and quality, but I think the stability of the defense is different, so I expect Tokyo Green to win at home.
