Avispa Fukuoka aim to continue their recent winning run in the J1 League on Saturday when they host struggling Albirex Niigata at Best Denki Stadium. While the visitors remain locked in a relegation scrap, Avispa look to push into the top half with another three points.
Match Overview
Avispa Fukuoka come into this clash sitting 11th in the J1 League with 26 points from 20 games. Kim Myung-hwi’s side have found some form of late, winning back-to-back matches — including a narrow 1-0 league win over Fagiano Okayama and a 2-0 Emperor’s Cup victory.
Despite their current upswing, Avispa have struggled for consistency this season. They’ve won just one of their last 10 league fixtures and have only picked up 13 points from 10 home games. Still, the momentum gained in recent weeks could prove crucial in building confidence.
Albirex Niigata sit rock bottom in 18th place, having collected just 19 points from 19 matches. They are fresh off a surprise 1-0 win over Yokohama F. Marinos and also advanced in the Emperor’s Cup with a 1-0 win against Fukuyama City.
Daisuke Kimori’s men have only lost once in their last four across all competitions, and interestingly, each of the last four top-flight meetings between these sides has ended in an away win — a streak Niigata will be eager to extend.
Team News
Avispa are without Shahab Zahedi, Itsuki Oda, and Jurato Ikeda due to injury. Their defensive unit remains key, with centre-back Tomoya Ando not only marshalling the back line but also contributing goals.
Takumi Kamijima is expected to start in defence, while Kazuya Konno will lead the attack from the front alongside Wellington and Kitajima.
Albirex Niigata are not carrying any major injury concerns heading into this clash. Forward Motoki Hasegawa remains their standout performer with six goals in 22 games this season and will be supported by Taniguchi up front.
Veteran Michael James Fitzgerald continues to anchor the defence, with Fujiwara, Inamura, and Hashimoto forming the supporting backline.
Tactical Review
Avispa are a compact and defensive-minded side who build from the back and rely on their wing-backs for attacking width. Their recent shift to a more pragmatic style has helped tighten their shape and secure vital results.
Niigata, meanwhile, have struggled for cutting edge but remain dogged defensively. Their 4-4-2 setup provides structure, and they’ve leaned on quick transitions and set-pieces to grind out recent wins.
How to Watch
The J1 League encounter between Avispa Fukuoka and Albirex Niigata will be broadcast on DAZN in Japan and via selected international streaming services. Kickoff is set for 6:00 PM JST (10:00 AM WAT) on Saturday, June 22.
Predictions
Softfootball Prediction: Avispa Fukuoka 1-1 Albirex Niigata
Both sides are coming off encouraging performances, and with momentum on their side, this clash could end in a tightly contested draw. Avispa’s slight home edge is offset by Niigata’s gritty recent form. Expect a low-scoring affair with few clear chances.