Defensive masterclass ends in stalemate (Shonan Bellmare vs Avispa Fukuoka analysis) | OneFootball

Shonan Bellmare and Avispa Fukuoka Share Spoils in Tactical Stalemate

Match Summary

Shonan Bellmare and Avispa Fukuoka played out a goalless draw in their J1 League Round 13 clash on Tuesday, with both sides demonstrating defensive resilience but lacking the cutting edge required to break the deadlock.

Despite Fukuoka dominating the attacking statistics with 20 shots to Shonan's seven, neither team could find a way through in a match where defensive organisation trumped offensive flair.

Tactical Battle

Both managers set up with three-at-the-back formations, with Satoshi Yamaguchi's Shonan Bellmare employing a 3-1-4-2 system against Kim Myung Hwi's 3-4-2-1 for Avispa Fukuoka.

The visitors controlled much of the play, creating several promising opportunities, but found themselves repeatedly thwarted by Shonan's disciplined defensive unit and goalkeeper Naoto Kamifukumoto, who made three crucial saves to preserve his clean sheet.

Shonan, meanwhile, looked to counter-attack and create chances from set-pieces, but similarly lacked the clinical finishing required to convert their limited opportunities.

Key Performers

Junnosuke Suzuki was the standout performer for Shonan Bellmare, earning a 7.9 rating with an impressive defensive display that included winning 13 of 19 duels, three tackles, one block and two interceptions. His recent conversion to centre-back has significantly strengthened Shonan's backline.

For Avispa Fukuoka, Takaaki Shichi impressed with a 7.5 rating, contributing effectively at both ends of the pitch with 47 successful passes, two tackles and one interception.

Shintaro Nago was another bright spark for Fukuoka during his 62 minutes on the pitch, creating three key passes and registering two shots as he sought to unlock the stubborn Shonan defence.

Match Statistics

The even nature of the contest was reflected in the possession statistics, with both teams recording 50%. However, Fukuoka's attacking intent was evident in their 20 shots (four on target) compared to Shonan's seven (two on target).

Other key statistics included: - Corner kicks: Shonan 1, Fukuoka 4 - Fouls: Shonan 6, Fukuoka 9 - Pass success rate: Shonan 82%, Fukuoka 83% - Saves: Shonan 3, Fukuoka 2 - Offsides: Shonan 3, Fukuoka 0

Team Form and Context

Shonan Bellmare have experienced mixed recent form with one win, one draw and three defeats in their last five matches. They currently sit 11th in the J1 League with five wins, three draws and five losses.

Avispa Fukuoka have been more consistent, with two wins, two draws and one defeat in their last five outings, placing them sixth in the table with six wins, three draws and four losses.

Both clubs have undergone significant squad changes in 2025, with Shonan bringing in players like Hiroaki Okuno, Yutaro Oda and Tomoya Fujii, while Fukuoka have strengthened with additions including Shahab Zahedi, Takumi Kamijima and Shintaro Nago.

Injury Situation

Shonan Bellmare have benefited from improved conditioning this season, with reports suggesting they have experienced their lowest injury rate in a decade following the introduction of a specialised breathing optimisation programme in partnership with conditioning experts.

Avispa Fukuoka continue to manage without defender Itoki Oda, who underwent surgery in March following an injury in February and remains sidelined for the long term.