Fujieda and Iwata's similar shapes put the inside receivers and wingbacks into direct contests. Restarts and changes from the bench can matter as much as long spells of possession. Imabari against Sapporo adds a different marking test: wide service with a midfielder arriving beyond the main striker.
Iwata's switch to three defenders has brought some real resistance, including limited opposition shots on target against Oita and Tosu. Fujieda still produce attempts, but recent games have shown difficulty turning that activity into accurate finishes and protecting the next phase. Inui's verified pass for Iago Teles supplies Iwata with an attacking connection beyond their restart goals.
Inui's suspension has ended; he missed the previous squad and his role remains a projection across the match rather than an assumed start. Kikui's surgery and the continuing Iwata injury cases predate the latest games. Fujieda also remain under Ota's temporary matchday charge during Makino's bench suspension. I expect a close contest in which Iwata's defensive group and returning supply option can help turn a decisive phase. That's why I'm siding with Iwata, with a level finish returning that part of the selection.
Imabari's Mori crossed for Kajiura's equalizer against Kofu, demonstrating a receiver arriving beyond Edigar. That asks Sapporo's outside defenders and midfield cover to track separate movements. Sapporo have made effective defensive adjustments, but their recent away clean sheets also included repeated goalkeeper interventions.
Imabari's older injury reports concern players already absent from the previous squad; the relevant supply and covering group played. Miyazawa's injury withdrawal leaves his status uncertain, while Horigome has already shown a credible replacement role. Imabari stay home during this short turnaround as Sapporo travel from Hokkaido. I expect the home side's retained wide supply and arriving runner to keep them competitive through the changing phases. That's why I'm siding with Imabari to avoid defeat.
