Chiba and Mito meet in a match that should turn on the first pass after each regain. Chiba can press with two forwards and keep returning the ball to the box, while Mito can go direct after winning the second ball. The next useful contact after an opening goal matters as much as the opening move.
Yamura and Erison can chase Mito's first outlet, with Tanaka and Yasui supplying the next delivery and Himeno following loose shots. Mito's Semba and Osaki can release Taniguchi or Patryck if they beat that pressure. Mase is suspended after playing in Mito's latest match, and Watanabe has no confirmed return after missing it; Chiba's Erison and Yasui both started against Fukuoka despite earlier injury labels.
Chiba's repeated entries and second contacts should give them another finish even if Mito find a direct response. That's why I'm siding with Chiba to win this match.
