Primera Nacional
Segunda División
Kashima arrives at the match with a strong recent record, including multiple victories and a solid away form. Their disciplined defensive approach and swift counterattacks could prove decisive against Shimizu S-pulse, who struggle with consistency and offensive productivity.
Check out our complete thoughts below.
These are our top betting tips and predictions for the match.
Given the defensive stability of both teams recently, Under 2.5 goals seems the more reliable prediction.
Kashima -0.75 is a solid bet given their dominance in head-to-heads and recent form. Alternatively, a draw looks likely with a high percentage support.
Both teams have struggled offensively lately; therefore, betting against both teams to score (BTTS) could be favorable.
Expect a cautious first half with fewer goals, possibly 0-0 or 1-0. Kashima may take the lead early, possibly maintaining or extending it by fulltime.
Kashima is predicted to secure a narrow victory over Shimizu S-pulse on August 31, supported by their superior recent form, head-to-head success, and strong away record. Defensive solidity and tactical discipline should prevail in this encounter.
Kashima has dominated recent fixtures, winning 4 of the last 5 meetings against Shimizu S-pulse while maintaining a perfect record in that span.
Both sides have minimal injury concerns; Kashima's squad remains largely fit, while Shimizu S-pulse faces some minor absences but no key players are expected to be sidelined.
Kashima is likely to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing solid midfield control and counter-attacks. Shimizu S-pulse might set up with a 4-4-2, focusing on possession retention and wing play.
Kashima has shown excellent form with 67% recent success, while Shimizu S-pulse is only 33% in their last five matches, indicating a significant disparity in confidence and performance levels.
See below all the main information for this match.
Kashima is likely to secure at least a draw or a narrow win against Shimizu S-pulse, with a prediction of around 1-0 or 2-1, based on their recent form and head-to-head performance.
Kashima has a strong recent head-to-head record, winning 100% of the last five encounters, which supports their favored outcome in this fixture. Shimizu S-pulse will need to rely on tactical discipline to avoid defeat.
Shimizu S-pulse's recent form is poor, with only 33% win rate in their last five matches and scoring an average of 0.6 goals per game while conceding 1.2. Kashima, on the other hand, boasts a 67% win rate with an average of 1.6 goals scored per game.
The match is scheduled for August 31, 2025, at IAI Stadium Nihondaira in Shizuoka. Considering the form and previous encounters, Kashima appears to have a tactical and psychological edge over Shimizu S-pulse.
