Rock bottom Grampus desperate for miracle against Sanfrecce surge (Nagoya vs Hiroshima prediction) | OneFootball

Struggling Nagoya Grampus Face Uphill Battle Against In-Form Hiroshima

Toyota Stadium plays host to a compelling J1 League clash this weekend as bottom-placed Nagoya Grampus desperately seek to kickstart their faltering campaign against sixth-placed Sanfrecce Hiroshima.

Contrasting Fortunes

Kenta Hasegawa's Nagoya side find themselves rooted to the foot of the table with just two wins from ten matches, their most recent outing ending in a comprehensive 2-0 defeat at Gamba Osaka where they failed to register a single shot on target.

The hosts' struggles are particularly evident in attack, with only midfielder Sho Inagaki showing consistent form with three goals and an assist this term. Despite significant winter recruitment, including goalkeeper Daniel Schmidt from Gent and attacker Mateus Castro, Grampus have yet to find cohesion or defensive stability.

"Except for the injured, everyone must give everything until the end," demanded Hasegawa ahead of Sunday's crucial fixture, with fan unrest growing after a string of disappointing performances.

In stark contrast, Michael Skibbe's Hiroshima have made an impressive start to the campaign, collecting 17 points from nine matches despite suffering a surprise 1-0 home defeat to Fagiano Okayama last time out.

Key Battles

The visitors' attacking options have been bolstered by several shrewd acquisitions, including the Germain duo – Ryo from Jubilo Iwata and Valère from Australian side Macarthur – though the latter's participation remains uncertain after suffering a hamstring injury in their previous match.

Hiroshima's defensive solidity has been a hallmark of their early-season form, with the backline of Sasaki, Araki and Nakano providing a sturdy foundation for their attacking talents to flourish.

For Nagoya, the return of defender Kennedy Egbus Mikuni from suspension offers a welcome boost, but they'll need vastly improved performances across the pitch to trouble a well-organised Hiroshima outfit.

Prediction

The contrast in confidence and form between these sides is stark. While Nagoya will hope home advantage might spark a revival, Hiroshima's tactical discipline and superior quality across the pitch should prove decisive.

Expect Sanfrecce to control possession through midfielders Kawabe and Tanaka, while looking to exploit Nagoya's defensive frailties with their varied attacking options. The hosts might show greater determination given their precarious position, but quality typically tells over 90 minutes.

Predicted Score: Nagoya Grampus 0-2 Sanfrecce Hiroshima