Two teams positioned at opposite ends of the J1 League standings will clash in a pivotal match on Saturday, as Consadole Sapporo host Vissel Kobe at the Sapporo Dome.
J1 League
Consadole Sapporo currently languish at the bottom of the league table after enduring a string of eight consecutive defeats. Their struggle this season contrasts sharply with their consistent mid-table finishes in previous years, managing just 11 points from 22 matches with only two wins and suffering 15 losses. Despite brief resurgences that ended their six-match winless streaks, they have struggled to maintain momentum, conceding 17 goals while scoring only four in their recent losing streak.
In their most recent encounters, they faced defeats against Yokohama F Marinos, Tokyo FC, and Albirex Niigata, followed by a 2-0 loss to Kashima Antlers. However, they did find a glimmer of success in the Emperor’s Cup third round, defeating Montedio Yagamata 6-3 with braces from Katsuyuki Tanaka and Yamato Okada. With a significant gap from safety, Consadole Sapporo must secure a much-needed victory at home to keep their survival hopes alive.
Their task will be daunting as they face Vissel Kobe, who are aiming for their third consecutive league win after a recent resurgence. Despite a mid-season dip following their 2023 J1 League title triumph, Vissel Kobe have amassed 34 points from 20 matches, currently sitting fourth in the standings. They returned to form with impressive victories over Kashima Antlers and Sanfrecce Hiroshima, scoring three goals in each match, including contributions from Yoshinori Muto, Matheus Thuler, Yuya Osako, Rikuto Hirose, and Hotaru Yamaguchi.
Following their Emperor’s Cup victory over Tokushima Vortis, Vissel Kobe are now determined to climb further up the standings and challenge for another league title. They are currently six points behind league leaders Machida Zelvia and will look to apply pressure on the top teams with another win against Consadole Sapporo.
In summary, Saturday’s match promises to be a crucial encounter with Consadole Sapporo desperate for points to avoid relegation, while Vissel Kobe aim to continue their climb towards the top of the J1 League.
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