Purple Archers aim to rediscover firepower against sinking Albirex (Sanfrecce Hiroshima vs Albirex Niigata prediction) | OneFootball

Hiroshima Look to End Losing Run Against Struggling Niigata

Sanfrecce Hiroshima will be desperate to halt their alarming slide when they host relegation-threatened Albirex Niigata in the J1 League on Tuesday evening.

The Purple Archers have suffered three consecutive defeats, plummeting to 10th in the table despite a promising start to the campaign. Their visitors, meanwhile, sit second from bottom with just one win all season, making this a crucial fixture for both sides.

Hiroshima's Attacking Woes

Michael Skibbe's men have hit a concerning patch of form, scoring just once in their last three matches. Their most recent outing saw them fall to a narrow 1-0 defeat at Urawa Reds, where assistant coach Sakoi took charge with Skibbe serving a touchline ban.

The German manager will return to the dugout after completing his suspension, which also included a ¥200,000 fine following protests about officiating decisions. His presence could provide the spark Hiroshima desperately need.

Creative midfielders Hayao Kawabe and Sota Nakamura have struggled to break down opposition defences in recent weeks, despite Hiroshima often dominating possession. The integration of January signings like Shion Inoue and Satoshi Tanaka has shown promise, but the team's finishing has let them down.

Niigata Fighting for Survival

Albirex Niigata's return to the top flight has been challenging, with Daisuke Kimori's side collecting just nine points from 12 matches. Their last six games have yielded no victories, though they've shown resilience with four draws during that period.

Captain Yota Komi recently issued an apology to supporters on social media, highlighting the growing pressure on a squad that underwent significant reconstruction during the winter transfer window.

Australian defender Jason Geria has added experience to their backline since arriving from Melbourne Victory, but defensive frailties remain evident with 17 goals conceded this season. Forward Ken Yamura, signed from Fujieda MYFC, has been a rare bright spot with four goals.

Niigata's away form against Hiroshima doesn't inspire confidence, with narrow defeats and draws being their typical outcome. They've yet to secure a comeback victory on their travels this season.

Prediction

Tuesday's clash represents a pivotal moment for both teams. Hiroshima need to rediscover their attacking flair, while Niigata must start converting draws into wins to escape the relegation zone.

Sanfrecce's solid defensive core of Tsukasa Shiotani, Hayato Araki and Sho Sasaki should provide enough stability against Niigata's inconsistent attack. The hosts' superior quality in midfield could prove decisive if they can break their scoring drought.

With the pressure mounting on both sides, expect a tense affair at Edion Stadium, but Hiroshima should have enough to secure a much-needed victory on home soil.

Predicted Score: Sanfrecce Hiroshima 2-0 Albirex Niigata