Fagiano Okayama — Shonan Bellmare : Match Preview and Prediction for August 23,2025

Fagiano Okayama is truly impressing this season, showcasing a powerful campaign. Takashi Kiyama’s team currently ranks among the top 10 strongest in the Japanese championship and has the potential to aim even higher. Recently, “Fagiano” has performed exceptionally convincingly, securing victories in 4 out of their last 6 matches. Their most recent home triumphs saw them overcome “Gamba” (3:0) and “Kashiwa” (2:1). In their latest encounter, Okayama demonstrated a highly reliable defensive performance and also outplayed their formidable opponent in terms of expected goals and shots on target. It’s evident that the “Pheasants” possess a very solid defense, having conceded only 23 goals throughout the season – a figure even lower than many of the league leaders! Furthermore, the home side’s attack is also present and operates extremely effectively. Crucially, Okayama faces no player absences for this fixture.

Shonan appears completely disheveled heading into this match. “Bellmare” has suffered defeat in 4 of their last 6 encounters. Yamaguchi’s squad currently languishes in 17th place, with the relegation zone literally breathing down their neck. Not long ago, the “Greens” were soundly beaten by “Urawa” (1:4) and “Kashiwa” (0:2). Even their 2:2 draw with “Tokyo” doesn’t seem particularly deserved; in that game, Shonan conceded 11 shots on goal, and their opponent had three clear scoring opportunities. I must specifically highlight the dreadful defense of the home side. The club has conceded a staggering 41 goals this season, which is one of the worst records in the tournament. Their attack, meanwhile, simply isn’t performing its job effectively. What’s more, “Bellmare” has several players in the infirmary: goalkeepers Nagai and Kamifukumoto, defenders Takahashi and Matsumoto, and midfielder Tamura will all be unavailable. All these players are vital to the squad, and their absence will significantly impact the result.