Analyses:
An intriguing showdown awaits us in the 22nd round of the Japanese J1 League as Avispa Fukuoka hosts Vissel Kobe on June 28, at noon GMT, at the Best Denki Stadium in Fukuoka. This return leg is vital for both. While the home side aspires for the continental competitions qualification spot, seven points away from their goal; the visitors are on a different mission, they are pursuing their third consecutive title.
Special Features:
Avispa Fukuoka enters this match in their best form recent. The home team is on a 3-game winning streak, and with an impressive record of 4 wins and a loss in the last 5 games. These victories include a 1-0 victory over Hiroshima in the first leg of the J. League Cup before they eventually lost by penalties in the second leg. We have witnessed a well-structured Avi in the recent matches, both defensively and in the final third; keeping 3 clean sheets in the last 5 games in all competitions, and scoring 8 goals in the process.
The reigning champions, Vissel Kobe, should avoid dropping points at all costs to keep their dream alive. Given their stunning performance in the last 5 games in all competitions, it would be unwise to doubt their capacity. Currently riding a 4-game winning streak, the visitors seem unstoppable. They have found the back of the net at least twice in 7 of the last 8 games, with 13 of them scored in the last 5 matches. With this precision, it will be hard for Fukuoka’s defense to keep them at bay despite playing on the road.
Suggestion:
Avispa Fukuoka stunned Vissel Kobe when they met in the first leg this season, a 0-1 victory thanks to Mitsuki Hidaka’s own goal. The question that stands is whether they will be able to repeat the feat. History shows that the Ushi are the favorites, having won 5 of the last 6 head-to-head encounters without conceding a goal. That means the hosts have not scored a goal against the visitors in their last 6 encounters.
Though playing at home, Fukuoka are considered the underdogs as the bookies offer @3.8 for their victory; backing the visitors pays @2.08, while the odds for a draw are @3.31. Going against the stats would be unwise; the visitors have been consistent for the third season now. So, before the odds drop, open an account made for winners and bet on Vissel Kobe to win this match and continue in the title race.