TIPS - Kyoto Sanga FC VS Vissel Kobe

[(Kyoto Sanga FC) Strength]:
1. Kyoto Sanga FC signed Avispa Fukuoka's starting goalkeeper Masaaki Murakami, who averaged 2.9 saves and 0.6 high claims per game in the J1 League last season.
2. Brazilian striker Alex Negueba joined Kyoto Sanga FC. He is adept at using his pace to break through defensive lines and is known for his defensive work rate and aggressive pressing.
3. Kyoto Sanga FC secured victories in their final two J1 League matches last season, showing impressive form during the closing stages of the campaign.
4. Kyoto Sanga FC were unbeaten with 1 win and 1 draw in the last 2 encounters between the two teams, giving them a better mentality.

[(Kyoto Sanga FC) Weakness]:
1. Kyoto Sanga FC forward Taichi Hara transferred to Bundesliga side FC St. Pauli. He notched 5 goals and 10 assists for the team last season.

[(Vissel Kobe) Neutral]:
1. Vissel Kobe signed Kashiwa Reysol's foreign player Diego Jara Rodrigues, who notched 5 goals and 3 assists for Kashiwa Reysol last season.
2. Vissel Kobe attacker Taisei Miyashiro joined Segunda Division side UD Las Palmas on a six-month loan deal that runs until the end of the current season.
3. Vissel Kobe signed Yokohama FC’s mixed-heritage center-back Boniface Nduka, who made 37 J1 League appearances and scored two goals for Yokohama FC last season.

[(Vissel Kobe) Weakness]:
1. Vissel Kobe were winless with only 4 draws and 2 losses in the final 6 J1 League matches last season.

[Tips]:
Kyoto Sanga FC boast a fully fit squad and employ a pragmatic tactical approach at home, excelling in counter-attacks and set-piece situations.

Having secured a 2-0 home victory in their last meeting with Vissel Kobe, they hold a clear psychological edge.

Vissel Kobe possess significant overall quality, but their away form has been mediocre.

Furthermore, the absence of goalkeeper Shota Arai due to injury has compromised their defensive stability, leaving the backline still in need of better coordination.

The current AH line is -0.25 for the visitors, indicating average support for Vissel Kobe.

Therefore, Kyoto Sanga are expected to successfully defend their home turf.

[Recommended]:
Kyoto Sanga FC (+0/0.5)