Sanfrecce to plunge Gamba into further trouble
Gamba Osaka are teetering on the brink of falling into the J1 League relegation zone when they welcome Sanfrecce Hiroshima to the Panasonic Stadium in Suita. Read our preview here:
Barefoot Gen
The Nerazzurri have lost their last four on the spin in the league, and only currently sit outside the bottom two by virtue of goal difference. Head coach Tomohiro Katanosaka has not yet been able to improve his side's fortunes since his appointment before the 2022 season commenced, with experienced hands in defence like Gen Shoji not performing to their fullest ability.
Mak 10
One-time Borussia Dortmund boss Michael Skibbe has had a long and storied career in senior management over a span of 24 years, and looks set to lead Viola to happier times. On the pitch, goals have been shared quite evenly, but he'll be impressed by the contributions of 22 year old forward Makoto Mitsuta, who has hit five this far in his first full season as a pro.
Betting tip
Though not prolific themselves, Sanfrecce Hiroshima have more than enough about them to win on the road, and can be backed at odds of 2.88 with bet365 to do so without letting Gamba Osaka score.
