J1 League Battle: Sanfrecce Hiroshima vs. Nagoya Grampus

Hiroshima Sanfrecce VS Nagoya Grampus    Livescore / H2H stats and Live Streaming
Time:28-06-2025 18:00 Saturday
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Match Preview:
Sanfrecce Hiroshima will look to continue their strong J1 League form when they host Nagoya Grampus. After a mixed period that saw them exit the AFC Champions League playoffs and experience a slight dip in league performance, Michael Skibbe's side has rebounded impressively with five wins in their last six league outings, capped by a commanding 4-0 victory over Yokohama FC. Now sitting third with 36 points and a game in hand, Hiroshima are firmly in the title race. They'll be seeking revenge after a 2-1 defeat in the reverse fixture.

In contrast, Nagoya Grampus has endured one of their worst starts to a season, taking seven games for their first league win. While they enjoyed a recent seven-game unbeaten streak across all competitions, it was snapped by Vissel Kobe, followed by a frustrating 1-1 draw with Shimizu S-Pulse. Lingering just five points above the drop zone, Nagoya's primary goal is survival. Their away form is a concern, with only one win from their last eight road trips.

Given Sanfrecce's strong defensive record – the best in the division with just 15 goals conceded – and their recent resurgence, they are clear favorites. Nagoya will aim to frustrate, but Hiroshima's attacking prowess, highlighted by Kosuke Kinoshita's recent brace, should prove too much.

Match Prediction: Sanfrecce Hiroshima to win