Sanfrecce Hiroshima — Shonan Bellmare : Match Preview and Prediction for September 07,2025

Sanfrecce Hiroshima’s Uphill Battle

Let’s be realistic: Sanfrecce approaches this second leg facing a deficit. They lost the first match 2-3, and that crucial fact must be our starting point. While they boast a 19-year-old talent, Nakajima, who delivered two phenomenal assists, what was the ultimate outcome for the team? Nothing. A loss is a loss.

Ineffective Possession and Attacking Struggles

The statistics from that initial encounter reveal Hiroshima’s underlying issues. The team commanded 62% of possession, yet it was largely sterile. A mere 8 shots throughout the entire match, with only 3 on target, is an alarmingly low output for a team considered a favorite. Their ball dominance failed to translate into genuine attacking threat, while their opponents proved far more incisive in their forays forward.

Lack of Dominance in Home and Head-to-Head Matches

Furthermore, Hiroshima doesn’t generally impress as a side capable of dismantling opponents. A glance at their recent home fixtures and head-to-head records paints a clear picture: in 13 of their last 16 home games, Sanfrecce has not won by more than a single goal. This trend is even more pronounced in direct clashes with Shonan Bellmare, where Hiroshima failed to cover a (-1.5) handicap in 12 of their last 13 meetings.

Shonan Bellmare: Cup Competition Resilience

Many observers might be concerned by Shonan Bellmare’s league position, where they currently hover in the relegation zone. However, the League Cup is an entirely different competition. It’s a stage where teams with little to lose often shine, and Shonan is a prime example of this. They’ve already defeated Hiroshima, a team contending for high honors in the J-League.

Clinical Finishing and First Leg Efficiency

In the first leg, Shonan demonstrated remarkable efficiency in converting their opportunities. Despite holding only 38% possession, they registered 10 shots, with 4 hitting the target. This indicates sharp focus and clinical finishing. They don’t dwell on possession; they aim for goal and score.

Lethal Attack and Key Player Spotlight

Their attacking unit is currently in excellent form. Although they recently lost 4-5 to Gamba Osaka, scoring four goals, even in a defeat, is a powerful testament to their offensive capabilities. Striker Riho Niita, on loan from Urawa, is particularly standing out. He netted the winning goal against Hiroshima in added time and previously scored a superb goal against Gamba. This player is on fire and has the potential to trouble any defense.