Gonzaga Sapporo of Hokkaido are unbeaten in their last three matches after defeating FC Tokyo 3-1 on the road last week, and are sure to finish the season in mid-table once again.
The key to this away win was Gonzaga Sapporo Hokkaido's ability to break through FC Tokyo's tight defense and penetrate right behind the opponent's defense. Kobayashi's good performance also strengthened Gonzaga Hokkaido's attacking power in front of the goal, as he was able to make a tackle in the open space, so this attacking weapon will surely pose a problem for Urawa Red Diamonds' center pair.
As for Urawa Red Diamonds, they lost 2-3 against Fukuoka Hornets at home last weekend, and they have not won in their last 3 matches, and they have lost their last 2 home matches in a row. The main reason for the team's decline is the lack of stability at the back, and the poor balance between offense and defense whenever they lose possession of the ball lately.
However, Urawa Red Diamonds have a high quality player in Alexandre Schouhous, who not only leads the defense well, but also provides a goal threat to the team, and he just scored his 6th goal of the season against Fukuoka Hornets.
