12-year curse: Can Cerezo finally break Kashima's spell? (Cerezo Osaka vs Kashima Antlers prediction) | OneFootball

Cerezo Osaka vs Kashima: Can the Hosts End Their 12-Year Home Hoodoo?

Cerezo Osaka will be looking to break one of Japanese football's most remarkable hoodoo records when they welcome Kashima Antlers to Yodoko Sakura Stadium on Saturday.

The hosts have lost an astonishing 12 consecutive home matches against Kashima dating back to 2010, failing to secure even a single point during this barren run. This unwanted streak adds extra spice to what is already a critical fixture for Arthur Papas' struggling side.

Form Guide

Cerezo currently sit 15th in the J1 League table with just two wins from nine matches, leaving them dangerously close to the relegation zone. Their recent form offers little encouragement, with just one victory in their last five outings.

In contrast, Kashima occupy fourth place after a strong start to the campaign, collecting five wins from nine matches. However, Toru Oniki's men have shown vulnerability of late, suffering back-to-back defeats including a chaotic 4-3 loss to Kyoto Sanga in their most recent fixture.

Key Battle: Stopping the Former Hero

The match presents a fascinating subplot with former Cerezo striker Léo Ceará returning to face his old club. The Brazilian has been in sensational form for Kashima, netting eight goals in nine appearances to lead the J1 scoring charts.

Cerezo defender Ryuya Nishio made no secret of the team's primary objective during their midweek training session: "We are determined not to let him score."

Neutralising Ceará will be crucial for a Cerezo defence that has looked fragile, conceding seven goals in their last five matches. The hosts will also need to keep close tabs on Yuma Suzuki, who forms a dangerous attacking partnership with the Brazilian.

Attacking Options

For all their defensive concerns, Cerezo possess genuine quality in attack. Sota Kitano has been their standout performer with four goals and two assists, while Brazilian Rafael Ratão has contributed three goals and one assist.

The January arrival of Thiago Andrade from Toronto FC has added further attacking impetus, though the team has struggled to convert chances consistently.

Kashima's threat extends beyond just Ceará, with midfield maestro Gaku Shibasaki pulling the strings and full-back Koki Anzai providing three assists from defence. The return of Ryotaro Araki from FC Tokyo has also strengthened their creative options.

Tactical Approach

Cerezo's preparations have continued despite coach Papas being absent from training due to health issues. The team has focused on addressing two key weaknesses: capitalising on momentum when scoring and eliminating defensive lapses.

Kashima's high-pressing style and physical presence in attack have troubled Cerezo historically. Their ability to exploit defensive errors could prove decisive, particularly given the hosts' recent vulnerability at the back.

Prediction

The historical weight of 12 straight home defeats against Kashima hangs heavy over Cerezo, but their desperation to end this streak could provide additional motivation. Both teams have shown defensive frailties recently, suggesting goals are likely.

Kashima's superior league position and psychological edge make them favourites, but Cerezo's home advantage and determination to break their curse could make this closer than the form book suggests.

Predicted Score: Cerezo Osaka 1-2 Kashima Antlers