Sanfrecce Hiroshima went down 0-1 to the Kyoto Immortals in an away clash on Saturday, a result that condemned them to the Japanese title this season.
In the loss, Sanfrecce's offense looked too one-dimensional, and in the second half it was too direct and simplistic, which ultimately led to the defeat.
If they are to score in the upcoming matches, Sanfrecce will have to tighten up their side defense to contain the Nagoya Whale's offense. Therefore, I think the play of wingbacks Takaki Shiki and Nakano will be crucial, as their active and precise passing on the side will be key.
The Nagoya Whalers have failed to win in their last five matches after a 1-1 draw with Hokkaido's Gonzaga Sapporo last weekend, which leaves them eight points behind table-topping Kobe Victory.
The team as a whole looked lackluster in this game, and fielding the same starting lineup for a long period of time seemed to show fatigue in the players.
Since his move from Hiroshima in August, Morishimaji has been a revelation, creating numerous scoring chances for the Whale. However, he desperately needs to improve his goal-scoring ability. In other words, he will be one of the center of attention in this return home game.
