Oniki's revenge? Master faces Frontale disciples in Tokyo thriller | OneFootball

Kashima vs Kawasaki Frontale: Title Contenders Host Continental Runners-Up

The National Stadium in Tokyo will set the stage for one of the J1 League's most intriguing fixtures this Sunday as table-toppers Kashima Antlers welcome Kawasaki Frontale in what's being billed as the "National Stadium Showdown."

Form Guide and Momentum

Kashima enter this high-profile encounter riding a wave of impressive form, having secured five consecutive league victories. Their recent 1-0 win against Avispa Fukuoka maintained their grip on the summit of the J1 standings, with Leo Ceara's prolific scoring (eight goals in ten games) spearheading their title charge.

In stark contrast, Kawasaki Frontale find themselves languishing in 15th place, struggling to translate their continental form into domestic success. After reaching the AFC Champions League Elite final, where they fell 2-0 to Al-Ahli Jeddah, Shigetoshi Hasebe's men have managed just one win from their last five league outings.

The Oniki Factor

Adding significant intrigue to this contest is the presence of Kashima coach Toru Oniki, who previously guided Kawasaki for several seasons. The emotional subtext hasn't been lost on his former players, with Kawasaki defender Kota Takai acknowledging: "He valued my individual tactical development. He's a manager who helped me grow, and while there's no special pressure, I want to win."

Fellow Frontale midfielder Tachibanada Kento added: "He's been looking after me since I became a professional. This will truly be an important match."

Tactical Battle

Oniki has transformed Kashima into a formidable unit characterized by defensive solidity and clinical attacking efficiency. Their backline has been particularly impressive, recording clean sheets in their last three matches.

Kawasaki, despite their domestic struggles, demonstrated their quality by defeating Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in the AFC Champions League semifinals. However, their tendency to concede (as evidenced by the 3-3 draw with Yokohama F. Marinos) remains a concerning trend that Kashima's attack will look to exploit.

The short turnaround from their continental campaign—having only returned to Japan on May 5th—may also impact Frontale's physical preparation for this crucial fixture.

Players to Watch

Beyond Ceara's goal-scoring exploits, Kashima's Aleksandar Čavrić has been instrumental since his winter arrival from Slovan Bratislava. The recent debut of 16-year-old Mizuki Yoshida, who became the youngest player in club history, also highlights Kashima's commitment to youth development.

For Kawasaki, 20-year-old defender Kota Takai has impressed with his aerial prowess, contributing two headed goals this season. Winter signing Tatsuya Ito, formerly of 1. FC Magdeburg, continues his adaptation to the J1 League with one goal and one assist thus far.

Prediction

The contrast in momentum couldn't be starker—Kashima's domestic dominance against Kawasaki's continental hangover. While Frontale possess the quality to trouble any opponent, Kashima's exceptional defensive record and clinical finishing give them the edge at the National Stadium.

Predicted Score: Kashima 2-0 Kawasaki Frontale