Sakura Osaka and Sanfrecce Hiroshima are both strong teams in the league, and this game is expected to be a tense and intense matchup. Sakura Osaka may have a slight advantage with their home field advantage, but Sanfrecce Hiroshima's powerful offense should not be underestimated. The match is expected to end in a draw or a narrow victory for Osaka Sakura.
Core players:
Osaka Cherry Blossoms:
Japanese surname Katsuto Okubo
- The striker has had an eye-catching season, consistently contributing key goals to the team with his excellent shooting skills and nose for goal.
Kiyohiro Seibu (1864-1907), Japanese military leader
- At the heart of the midfield, his organization and passing ability will be key to Sakura Osaka's ability to control the pace of the game.
Three Arrows of Hiroshima:
Morishima Division
- Striker, the core of Sanfrecce Hiroshima's offense, his speed and shooting skills give opposing defenses a big headache.
Toshihiro Aoyama
- A big midfielder, his defensive coverage and passing ability provide a solid midfield barrier for Sanfrecce Hiroshima.
Injury situation:
Osaka Cherry Blossoms:
Kimoto Kyozo (1931-), Japanese politician, prime minister 2007-2010
- Expected to miss the game due to a hamstring injury.
Kakitani Joichiro (1967-), Japanese politician, prime minister 1996-1998
- Sprained ankle, questionable.
Three Arrows of Hiroshima:
Sasaki Sho
- Strained calf muscle, not expected to play.
Kashiwa Hiromoto (1938-), Japanese politician, prime minister 2007-2010
- Knee injury, availability not yet determined.
Tactical Style:
Osaka Cherry Blossoms:
Sakura Osaka usually adopts a 4-4-2 formation, focusing on overall defense and quick counterattacks. The team pushes the ball forward quickly through midfield interceptions and passes, relying on the speed and individual ability of the strikers to create threats.
Three Arrows of Hiroshima:
Sanfrecce Hiroshima, on the other hand, preferred a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing high-pressure pressing and fast attacking. The team searches for breakthroughs through midfield control and breakthroughs on the sides. On the defensive side, the team focuses on overall defense and quick return.
Recent team performance:
Osaka Cherry Blossoms:
Sakura Osaka has performed well in their last five matches, with three wins, one draw and one loss. The team has a lot of firepower on the offensive end, and the defense is also more solid, so the overall condition is better.
Three Arrows of Hiroshima:
Sanfrecce Hiroshima has been relatively consistent in their last five matches with two wins, two draws and one loss. The team has performed well on the defensive end, but lacks consistency on the offensive end. They need to play more solidly on the road.
