Gamba Osaka vs Sanfrecce Hiroshima Prediction: Expecting A Goal-Laden Affair In The Last Round

Gamba Osaka will welcome Sanfrecce Hiroshima to the Suita City Stadium in the 38th round of the J1 League. 

Let's have a look at the latest J1 League predictions between Gamba Osaka vs. Sanfrecce Hiroshima, match facts and betting odds for you to consider!

Note: Odds are subject to change at any time!

Form: WWWDW

Gamba Osaka has overperformed this season for a team that finished in 16th place in the previous season. In the current season, they are one game away from securing a fourth-place finish. This will be marked down on paper as their highest league finish since 2020 when they finished second.

Osaka has been unstoppable in the league and heads into this match unbeaten in their last five matches (W4, D1). Their most recent league match saw them beat Albirex Niigata 1-0 on the road. This was consolation for their 1-0 home defeat against Vissel Kobe in the final of the Emperor's Cup.

Form: WLLLW

Sanfrecce Hiroshima could have been the current leader in the J1 League table if it weren't for their sudden decline in form that witnessed them lose three consecutive matches. Currently, they occupy second place and are one point behind the top spot.

Hiroshima secured a commanding 4-1 home victory against Eastern SC in the AFC Champions League on Thursday. This comes after thrashing lowly-placed Consadole Sapporo 5-1 at home to halt a three-match losing streak. 

• Gamba Osaka is currently on a two-match winning streak at home in the J1 League.
• Sanfrecce Hiroshima have lost their last two away matches in the J1 League.
• Gamba Osaka averages 1.5 goals per game when playing at home, and Sanfrecce Hiroshima averages 1.56 goals per game when playing away.

In the last 55 meetings, Gamba Osaka have won 26 times, Sanfrecce Hiroshima have won 16 times, and there have 13 draws with the goal difference 92-85 in favor of Gamba Osaka.

Gamba Osaka head into this clash unbeaten in their last three home matches in the league. It goes without saying they'll prove to be a tough nut to crack despite the odds being stacked against them. 

Sanfrecce Hiroshima have failed to win any of their last three encounters against Gamba Osaka, losing twice and drawing once. However, their last match in this venue witnessed them secure a 2-1 victory, which could serve as motivation to halt their winless run in this fixture. I expect this to be a back-and-forth brawl between two sides that have been in form, which is why I recommend supporting the total to exceed 2.5 goals.

• Total - Over 2.5 for 1.84
• Both Teams To Score - Yes for 1.75
• Full-time Result - Sanfrecce Hiroshima for 1.79