Iwaki’s scoreless game against Sendai hid how much trouble they caused early. Their attacks reached the box through passes, crosses and second balls, the same kinds of situations that have hurt Sapporo recently. Sapporo’s move to a back three has yet to settle those moments. That matchup, rather than either team’s latest score, is the reason for this slip.
Iwaki forced saves and blocks during its strong opening against Sendai. In its win over Sagan Tosu, an initial cross or corner did not end the attack: Iwaki kept winning the loose ball and building another chance.
Sapporo conceded twice from set pieces against Okayama, and Oita also scored after a cleared corner was sent back into the box. Kenta Kawai’s side did produce a well-worked goal against Okayama, but it had far fewer shots overall. The fixture is in Hakodate, away from Sapporo’s usual dome.
