Unexpectedly, Sanfrecce Hiroshima lost 1-2 to newly promoted team Niigata Swan in last week's match at home, a result that deeply shocked me.
Observing this game, I noticed that Sanfrecce Hiroshima's defense seems to be looking a bit loose, while when attacking at full strength, they are frequently being broken from behind. So far this season, Sanfrecce's strikers have yet to make a mark, with only defender Shiokuji scoring the team's only goal of the season against Niigata Swan. However, with the return of Morishimaji, I believe the team's attacking power is expected to be improved, and his positional awareness in front of the goal will be a key factor in deciding the winner of this match.
On the contrary, Yokohama Mariners won their second consecutive game in the last round of the league, beating Urawa Red Diamonds 2-0 with goals from Andersen Lubis and Enmafios. The Mariners seem to have adjusted their form quite well, especially with their solid defense and ability to stay alert on offense. Anderson Rubis would drop back and organize the attack, while Elba and Hirata Mizunuma excelled at using the width of the pitch to launch attacks on the sides and create chances for Takuma Nishimura to receive in the middle of the pitch.
Although Sanfrecce Hiroshima lost at home in their last league match, it won't change their tactics. Given that the hosts won a big game on the road against Yokohama Marinos last season, I'm confident that Sanfrecce will be on their guard in this game and will increase their defensive intensity considerably.
