Hiroshima's varied wide service meets a Mito defence still adjusting under Mori. Tochigi and Iwaki can reach attacking receivers through different routes without owning possession. Sendai's direct outlet and Omiya's mobile combinations create another contest where the second action after pressure matters most.
Hiroshima can use crosses, cutbacks and far-side arrivals to test the spaces Mito lost in its first match under the new coach. Mito conceded from a corner rebound and a far-post header immediately after equalising. Asano started the latest cup match and left after an hour, while other recent receivers keep the route broader than one player.
Yamasaki's long-term absence is established and already reflected in the used defensive options. Kawamura's current clearance is unresolved, and the view does not require him or any assumed new Mito absentee. Both teams share the same short turnaround. Hiroshima's width and later receiving changes should keep asking the more difficult questions, which is why I'm siding with Hiroshima to win.
Tochigi can combine outside and inside Iwaki's anchor, while Iwaki have a direct forward pass, Michiwaki's lay-off and the following runner. Tochigi allowed central entries against Fujieda even with eleven players, and Iwaki have recently allowed pressure to continue after taking a lead.
Hiraoka is officially suspended after starting and being dismissed in the last match. Tochigi's earlier entries and Chinen's supply to Yoshida show that the attacking route already exists beyond him, with Nguen and Koike recently used alternatives. I expect the contest for second receivers to remain active after the opening goal. I'm siding with goals between Tochigi and Iwaki.
Sendai can play beyond Omiya's press into Miyazaki and bring supporting runners onto the next ball. Omiya's Caprini–Izumi connection can attack midfield losses before Sendai recover. Pelach's commitment to the high line keeps the space behind that first pressure relevant.
Gen Kato is suspended after his latest substitute appearance; this is a central option, not left-back Hijiri Kato. Sendai's Umeki and Matsui missed the last squad and remain unconfirmed, while Miyazaki preserves an observed target route. The match should increasingly turn on pressure and recovery spacing as midfield and forward changes arrive. I'm siding with goals between Sendai and Omiya.
