J1 League Gameweek 3
Kashima vs NS Avispa Fukuoka
League Standings
League Standings
| Pos | Team | P | Pts | GF | GA | GD | Form |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kashiwa Reysol | 2 | 6 | 5 | 2 | +3 | |
| 2 | Machida Zelvia | 1 | 3 | 5 | 1 | +4 | |
| 3 | Sanfrecce Hiroshima | 1 | 3 | 3 | 0 | +3 | |
| 4 | Kashima | 1 | 3 | 4 | 3 | +1 | |
| 5 | Gamba Osaka | 1 | 3 | 4 | 3 | +1 | |
| 6 | Cerezo Osaka | 1 | 3 | 2 | 1 | +1 | |
| 7 | V-varen Nagasaki | 1 | 3 | 2 | 1 | +1 | |
| 8 | Shimizu S-pulse | 1 | 3 | 1 | 0 | +1 | |
| 9 | Vissel Kobe | 1 | 3 | 1 | 0 | +1 | |
| 10 | Kawasaki Frontale | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | |
| 11 | Tokyo Verdy | 2 | 1 | 2 | 4 | -2 | |
| 12 | Yokohama F. Marinos | 1 | 0 | 3 | 4 | -1 | |
| 13 | Urawa | 1 | 0 | 3 | 4 | -1 | |
| 14 | Mito Hollyhock | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | -1 | |
| 15 | Kyoto Sanga | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | -1 | |
| 16 | Fagiano Okayama | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | -1 | |
| 17 | Avispa Fukuoka | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | -1 | |
| 18 | Nagoya Grampus | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | -1 | |
| 19 | JEF United Chiba | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 | -3 | |
| 20 | FC Tokyo | 1 | 0 | 1 | 5 | -4 |
P: 2 GD: +3
P: 1 GD: +4
P: 1 GD: +3
P: 1 GD: +1
P: 1 GD: +1
P: 1 GD: +1
P: 1 GD: +1
P: 1 GD: +1
P: 1 GD: +1
P: 1 GD: 0
P: 2 GD: -2
P: 1 GD: -1
P: 1 GD: -1
P: 1 GD: -1
P: 1 GD: -1
P: 1 GD: -1
P: 1 GD: -1
P: 1 GD: -1
P: 1 GD: -3
P: 1 GD: -4
Match Preview
Match previews and recaps to help you decide which games are worth watching
Win Probability
Futmetrix AI estimate
Kashima's Attack Primed to Explode Again
Highly Entertaining Futmetrix Score: 70/100. An early-season test of trajectories, as Kashima's prolific attack meets an Avispa Fukuoka side desperate to kickstart their campaign.
The Setup
This August 22, 2026 clash at Mercari Stadium offers a classic stylistic contrast. Kashima sit fourth after a wild opening match that saw them net four times but concede three. Their Form is undeniably positive, yet leaves defensive questions unanswered. Avispa Fukuoka, languishing in 17th after a narrow opening-day defeat, need to find their attacking rhythm quickly. With early-season Stakes still simmering, the overarching narrative rests on Kashima's Stars proving too much for a visiting side still searching for its identity.
Key Battle
This match hinges on the collective clash between Kashima's dynamic forward line and Fukuoka's disciplined but fragile defensive unit. The visitors must weather an early storm; if their backline cracks under the pressure of overlapping runs, the floodgates could open.
Our Prediction
Expect Kashima to dominate possession and dictate the tempo. Fukuoka will likely sit deep and hope to frustrate the hosts, but Kashima's sheer volume of chances should eventually break the deadlock. We foresee a comfortable 2-0 home victory.
Key Questions
Should I watch this match?
It offers solid entertainment value to see Kashima's attacking machinery, though the competitive balance might lean heavily toward the home side.
What's the predicted outcome?
Kashima's overwhelming offensive quality should secure them a straightforward 2-0 victory over a blunt Fukuoka attack.
Where are Kashima and Avispa Fukuoka in the league table?
Kashima currently sits in 4th place, while Avispa Fukuoka is struggling down in 17th.
What is Kashima's current form?
They are off to a winning start, taking three points in their opening fixture while showcasing significant attacking threat.
Who is the in-form player to watch?
Watch out for Kashima's Léo Ceará, who boasts 3 goals in 2 matches and an exceptional 8.1 average rating.
What is the Futmetrix Score?
The Futmetrix Score is our 0-100 verdict on how entertaining a match is. We look at intensity, balance, stakes, and star quality to tell you if it's worth your time.