Get ready for a thrilling 2025 J1 League clash between Sanfrecce Hiroshima and Kawasaki Frontale on May 31. Kick-off is set for 10:30 CEST in Italy, Germany, France and Spain, and 09:30 BST in the UK. Fans can expect an early morning treat as these two giants battle at Hiroshima Big Arch.
This fixture sees the third-placed Sanfrecce hosting a side eager to reclaim momentum. With both clubs eyeing top spots, this match carries plenty of weight in the title race and J1 League standings.
How are both teams coming into this?
Sanfrecce Hiroshima arrive in superb form, having rattled off five straight league wins, including a convincing 3-0 triumph away at FC Tokyo. Their defensive backbone of Shiotani, Araki and Sasaki has been virtually unbreakable, while new signings like Ryo Germain and Daiki Suga have injected pace and creativity up front.
Kawasaki Frontale have hit a minor bump in recent weeks but remain a potent attacking force. Their fluid style can unlock any defense, though inconsistency on the road has cost them points. Frontale’s coach will demand a tighter shape and sharper transitions to get back to winning ways.
Our forecast
Given Sanfrecce’s home dominance and winning momentum, we expect them to dictate the early tempo and press high. Hiroshima’s dynamic forwards should create openings against a Frontale backline under pressure.
That said, Kawasaki’s counter-attacking quality means they’ll pose a threat on the break. We predict a competitive encounter, but edge the hosts to prevail in a 2-1 scoreline, thanks to Sanfrecce’s defensive solidity and attacking punch.
