Rising Grampus to sink struggling Bellmare? (Shonan Bellmare vs Nagoya Grampus prediction) | OneFootball

Nagoya Grampus Aim to Continue Resurgence Against Struggling Shonan Bellmare

Nagoya Grampus will look to build on their recent revival when they travel to face Shonan Bellmare in the J1 League this Sunday, with both sides experiencing contrasting fortunes in recent weeks.

Form Guide

After a disastrous start to the season that saw them winless in their first six matches - their worst opening since 1997 - Nagoya have shown signs of life with back-to-back victories against Yokohama FC and Yokohama F. Marinos. These crucial wins have offered hope to a side currently sitting 17th in the table.

Shonan Bellmare, meanwhile, find themselves in a concerning slump. Despite beginning the campaign with three consecutive victories, they've gone five matches without a win, collecting just two points from a possible 15.

Team News

Shonan will continue to miss forward Lukian, who remains sidelined with a distal anterior tibiofibular ligament rupture in his left leg. His absence has significantly hampered their attacking options, with the goalscoring burden falling on Akito Suzuki, who leads the team with three goals this season.

Nagoya have received a boost with goalkeeper Daniel Schmidt's return from injury. The Japan international kept a clean sheet in their 2-0 victory over Yokohama F. Marinos and has brought much-needed stability to their backline.

Key Battle

The midfield contest between Sho Inagaki and Kosuke Onose could prove decisive. Inagaki has been Nagoya's standout performer with two goals and an assist this season, including a goal and assist in their last outing. Onose, with two assists to his name, will be tasked with creating opportunities for Shonan's forwards.

Tactical Analysis

Shonan typically adopt a defensive approach with quick counter-attacks through Suzuki and Sho Fukuda. However, their defensive unit, despite featuring the experienced Min Tae Kim, has looked vulnerable in recent weeks.

Nagoya have found a more balanced formula under manager Kenta Hasegawa, with Brazilian winger Mateus Castro adding creativity since his January arrival from Al Taawon. His partnership with Inagaki has been crucial to their recent upturn in form.

Prediction

Momentum is firmly with the visitors, who have scored four goals in their last two matches while conceding just once. Shonan's defensive frailties and lack of cutting edge suggest they'll struggle to contain a Nagoya side growing in confidence.

While Shonan will hope home advantage provides a boost, Nagoya's newfound resilience should see them edge a competitive encounter.

Predicted Score: Shonan Bellmare 1-2 Nagoya Grampus