Shimizu S-Pulse vs Albirex Niigata prediction: Orange Derby returns with a bang after 7-year wait - who will paint the town orange? | OneFootball

J1 League Preview: Orange Derby Returns After Seven-Year Hiatus

The J1 League's second matchday brings us the highly anticipated return of the "Orange Derby" as Shimizu S-Pulse host Albirex Niigata at the IAI Stadium. This fixture marks the first meeting between these orange-clad sides in Japan's top flight since November 26, 2017 - a remarkable gap of seven years and three months.

Recent Form and Season Openers

Both teams enter this contest with contrasting momentum from their opening fixtures. Shimizu S-Pulse secured a historic 1-0 victory against Tokyo Verdy at the National Stadium - their first win at that venue in 24 years. This result has positioned them 8th in the early J1 standings and marked a perfect return to top-flight football.

Albirex Niigata, currently sitting 9th, demonstrated their resilience with a 1-1 draw against powerhouse Yokohama F. Marinos. The visitors boast an impressive record in season openers, remaining undefeated in their last 10 such matches. However, their recent form shows signs of vulnerability, with their last five games yielding three draws and two losses.

Squad Dynamics and Transfer Activity

Both clubs have undergone significant squad overhauls. Shimizu S-Pulse's recruitment has focused on strengthening their midfield, bringing in Brazilian Mateus Bueno from Guarani and securing Teruki Nakahara on loan from Sagan Tosu. The departure of experienced goalkeeper Shuichi Gonda marks a significant change in their defensive setup.

Albirex Niigata has also been active in the transfer market, notably acquiring Australian defender Jason Geria from Melbourne Victory and promising Brazilian midfielder Miguel Silveira dos Santos from PFC Sochi. The retirement of veteran forward Koji Suzuki and Thomas Deng's move to Yokohama F. Marinos represent significant changes to their squad composition.

Tactical Considerations

Shimizu's last successful outing featured an effective lineup with Oki in goal, protected by a defensive unit of Takagi, Sumiyoshi, Hasukawa, and Yamahara. The midfield combination of Bueno, Uno, and Nakahara proved crucial, while Inui, Capixaba, and Kitagawa led the attack.

Albirex's approach under manager Daisuke Kimori has been pragmatic, as evidenced by their opening day draw. Their lineup featuring Fujita, Fujiwara, Fitzgerald, and Inamura in defense showed promising signs against a strong Yokohama attack.

Historical Significance

The IAI Stadium holds special meaning for Albirex Niigata, being the venue where they achieved their first consecutive wins and last come-from-behind victory during their previous J1 stint. However, unique circumstances see them preparing for this match in Osaka due to snow conditions in their home region of Niigata.

Predicted Score: Shimizu S-Pulse 2 - 1 Albirex Niigata