Shimizu S-Pulse vs Montedio Yamagata prediction

⚽️ Japan J2-League - 09 Sep 2023 - 12:00
Preview by Kiyotake
The home team, Shimizu, has drawn their last 2 league matches and missed the opportunity to move up to 2nd place. As we approach the end of the season, the pressure is naturally increasing. They haven't lost in their last 11 league matches, with 4 ending in draws and 7 in victories. Their sole goal is to finish in the top 2 at the end of the season, avoiding the playoffs and the associated stress. On the other hand, the visiting team, Montedio Yamagata, experienced a significant morale setback after losing 5-0 to the leader, Zelvia, in an away match following a 5-match winning streak. In their last match played at their own turf, they drew 1-1 against the last-placed team, Omiya, still shaken from the shock of the previous match. Their morale has taken a hit. Looking at the matches played on this pitch between the two teams, we can see that 2 matches ended in draws, while Shimizu won 4 matches. I anticipate that the home team, who has a significant advantage against their opponent, will win this match by scoring at least 2 goals.