Kobe to pile more misery on winless Niigata (Vissel Kobe vs Albirex Niigata prediction) | OneFootball

Vissel Kobe Look to Extend Winning Run Against Bottom-Placed Albirex Niigata

Vissel Kobe will aim to continue their recent upturn in form when they host struggling Albirex Niigata at the National Stadium in Tokyo on Sunday, in what promises to be a pivotal J1 League Round 9 clash for both sides.

The match, part of the "Rakuten SUPER MATCH" series, coincides with Vissel Kobe's 30th anniversary celebrations, with the first 30,000 fans receiving commemorative crimson T-shirts.

Form Guide

Takayuki Yoshida's Vissel Kobe side have begun to find their rhythm after a sluggish start to the campaign. Back-to-back league victories against Yokohama FC and Shonan Bellmare have lifted them to 14th in the table, offering signs of recovery following their inconsistent early-season performances.

In stark contrast, Albirex Niigata remain rooted to the foot of the J1 League standings, still searching for their first win after eight matches. Daisuke Kimori's men have shown an ability to score goals – netting nine times this season – but defensive frailties have seen them concede 14, making them the second-leakiest defence in the division.

Key Players

Yuya Osako has been instrumental in Vissel Kobe's recent resurgence, contributing two goals and one assist in the league campaign, including finding the net in two of their last three matches. The experienced forward's clinical finishing could prove decisive against Niigata's vulnerable backline.

Loan signing Erik has also made an immediate impact since his March arrival from Machida Zelvia, scoring the winner in their most recent outing.

For the visitors, Ken Yamura and Motoki Hasegawa have been rare bright spots in a difficult season, with each player notching two goals. Michael James Fitzgerald has offered stability in defence with his impressive 86.15% pass accuracy, but Albirex's overall defensive organisation remains a concern.

Previous Encounters

Albirex Niigata's struggles have been particularly evident in their recent fixtures, where they've developed a concerning habit of failing to close out games. Their last five league matches have yielded three draws and two defeats, including a thrilling 3-3 draw with Gamba Osaka that highlighted both their attacking potential and defensive vulnerabilities.

Tactical Battle

Vissel Kobe are likely to deploy their familiar 4-2-3-1 formation, with Osako leading the line and Daiju Sasaki providing creative impetus from midfield. Matheus Thuler will anchor the defence as they look to secure another clean sheet following their shutout against Yokohama FC.

Albirex Niigata have typically lined up in either a 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1 system, with Kimori potentially opting for a more cautious approach away from home. Their ability to transition quickly through Yamura and Hasegawa offers their best route to success.

What's at Stake

The pressure continues to mount on Albirex Niigata coach Daisuke Kimori, whose side desperately need a positive result to kickstart their season. Meanwhile, Vissel Kobe have an opportunity to climb further up the table and build momentum as they look to establish themselves in the top half.

Prediction

With home advantage and superior recent form, Vissel Kobe should have enough quality to overcome an Albirex Niigata side low on confidence. Osako's goalscoring form and Niigata's defensive issues suggest the hosts will create enough chances to secure all three points.

Predicted Score: Vissel Kobe 2 - 0 Albirex Niigata