MATCH OVERVIEW
Kashima Antlers and Shimizu S-Pulse are set to face off in a pivotal J League match that could significantly impact their standings this season. Kashima Antlers, currently enjoying a solid run, will be eager to capitalize on their home advantage at the Kashima Soccer Stadium. Meanwhile, Shimizu S-Pulse, known for their resilience, will aim to secure a vital away victory.
ODDS ANALYSIS
The odds favor Kashima Antlers with a 1.94 chance of winning, translating to a probability of approximately 51.5%. The draw is priced at 3.11, offering a 32.1% chance, while Shimizu S-Pulse's odds of 3.53 suggest a 28.3% probability of an away win. Given these odds, Kashima Antlers are expected to edge out their opponents, but the possibility of a draw remains significant.
TEAM ANALYSIS
Kashima Antlers
- Form: Kashima Antlers have been impressive, averaging 1.63 goals per match and maintaining a strong defensive record with only 0.75 goals conceded per game.
- Strengths: Their offensive prowess is highlighted by 10.75 shots per game and a high CompaScore Offensive Rating of 522.3.
- Weaknesses: Despite their attacking strength, their possession rate of 48.63% suggests room for improvement in controlling the game.
Shimizu S-Pulse
- Form: Shimizu S-Pulse have scored 1.31 goals per match, with a slightly higher concession rate of 1.19 goals.
- Strengths: Their passing accuracy is notable, with 447.5 passes per game and a CompaScore Passes Rating of 329.02.
- Weaknesses: Their defensive capabilities are weaker compared to Kashima, as indicated by their CompaScore Defensive Rating of 316.08.
Head-to-Head
Historically, Kashima Antlers have had the upper hand in this fixture, often leveraging their home advantage to secure victories.
KEY PLAYERS SPOTLIGHT
Kashima Antlers
- Léo Ceará: With 9 goals this season, he is a key threat in the attacking third.
- Yuma Suzuki: His 4 goals and dynamic play make him a crucial asset.
Shimizu S-Pulse
- Koya Kitagawa: Leading the team with 7 goals, Kitagawa is vital for Shimizu's offensive strategy.
- Takashi Inui: Known for his creativity, Inui's playmaking abilities are essential.
STATISTICAL DEEP DIVE
- Offensive Metrics: Kashima's average of 4.44 shots on target per game surpasses Shimizu's 3, indicating a more potent attack.
- Defensive Metrics: Kashima's 3.06 goalkeeper saves per match highlight their defensive solidity.
- Possession and Passing: Shimizu's higher possession rate of 48.75% and successful passes suggest they might control the midfield.
PREDICTION AND CONCLUSION
Based on the data, Kashima Antlers are likely to win, leveraging their home advantage and superior offensive capabilities. Key factors include Léo Ceará's goal-scoring form and Kashima's defensive strength. However, Shimizu's passing accuracy and Kitagawa's goal threat could pose challenges.
Final Score Prediction: Kashima Antlers 2-1 Shimizu S-Pulse Half Time Score Prediction: Kashima Antlers 1-0 Shimizu S-Pulse Probability of Both Teams to Score: 60% Probability of Over 2.5 Goals: 44%