Nagoya Grampus welcome Shimizu S-Pulse to Toyota Stadium on Saturday with a chance to go level on points with their visitors in the J1 League table. Despite sitting five places behind Shimizu, a win could see Nagoya mount a charge toward the top half, while the visitors are looking to regain momentum after a patchy run of form.
Match Overview
Nagoya Grampus endured a winless start to the season but have since sparked a revival, climbing away from the relegation zone. Kenta Hasegawa’s side had been unbeaten in six prior to their recent 2-1 loss to Vissel Kobe and now sit just four points above the bottom three.
Their recent home form offers hope: they’ve taken down the likes of Urawa Reds and Albirex Niigata at Toyota Stadium and will aim to add Shimizu to that list. Victory here would not only boost morale but put them on even footing with their opponents in terms of points.
Shimizu S-Pulse, meanwhile, have taken just five points from their last seven matches, stalling their top-four ambitions. While Tadahiro Akiba’s men remain within striking distance, recent away form—three consecutive losses—raises concerns heading into this crucial encounter.
Team News
Nagoya could make limited changes after their Kobe loss, though Kenta Hasegawa may reintroduce Tsukasa Morishima in the attacking midfield role. Kasper Junker is expected to start up front, possibly replacing Yuya Yamagishi.
Sho Inagaki continues to be a vital engine in midfield, while the back three of Mikuni, Hara, and Sato will look to bounce back after a brief defensive lapse last time out.
Shimizu may consider changes after firing blanks against Gamba Osaka. Kai Matsuzaki, with four goals and three assists this season, is likely to retain his spot ahead of veteran Takashi Inui, while Capixaba will be tasked with providing width and service from the flanks.
Tactical Review
Nagoya have leaned into a compact defensive shape with a narrow midfield, looking to strike through quick transitional play. Their strength at home has been winning second balls and pressing high in advanced areas.
Shimizu, meanwhile, play with more width but have lacked creativity in central areas. They may struggle to break Nagoya down unless they can stretch the play and exploit the space behind the back line with the pace of Matsuzaki and Kitagawa.
How to Watch
This J1 League clash will be available on DAZN Japan and select international streaming platforms. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 PM JST (10:00 AM WAT) on Saturday, June 22.
Predictions
Softfootball Prediction: Nagoya Grampus 1-1 Shimizu S-Pulse
Nagoya’s recent home form makes them slight favourites, but Shimizu will be motivated to avoid a fourth consecutive away defeat. A tightly contested draw seems the most likely outcome, with both sides eager not to lose ground in the standings.