Kofu and Niigata can each create a goal from a second touch after the first defensive contact. Kofu often need Naito or a runner to make something of a limited first pass. Niigata have scored from both quick regains and wide deliveries. Their defenses have recently allowed the next attack to continue after an initial stop.
Kofu's deeper shape can bring Naito into the box, with Takei following a saved shot as he did at Imabari. Niigata have turned midfield recoveries into goals against Sendai and crosses into goals against Tosu, while their away defense has allowed repeated finishes. Kofu's recent draws hide substantial opposing shot volume, including pressure that keeper Higashi had to handle.
Endo played in Kofu's latest match but is now suspended, changing the outside of its back three. Niigata's Moraes left its latest game injured; Iuri replaced him and scored, so the away run and cross route has another finisher. I expect the first goal to invite a genuine response rather than close the game down, with Niigata's later runner and Kofu's rebound route both in play. That's why I'm siding with Kofu and Niigata to combine for a high-scoring match.
