J-League Cup 4th Round: Machida Zelvia's Ambition vs. Nagasaki's Naval Fortunes?

The J-League Cup's fourth round introduces a two-leg knockout format, with current J1 leaders Machida Zelvia showing aspirations beyond their league dominance. They are determined not only to lead in the top division but also to pursue success in the league cup and another cup competition, aiming to emulate a fortified version of Kaiserlautern. Nagasaki's V-Varen, having already eliminated two J1 teams in the first three rounds, impresses not only with their robust defense but also with a streak of favorable luck. Can their fortunate streak continue?

Osaka Sakura vs. Machida Zelvia: Fortified Kaiserlautern Miracle?

Osaka Sakura's Path

Osaka Sakura, who had a bye in the first round of the league cup, advanced past two J3 teams, Ryukyu FC and Iwate Grulla Morioka, with identical 1-0 away victories. Despite facing third-tier opposition, these away victories demanded significant effort from Sakura to secure progression. Against Ryukyu, they took an early lead in the 6th minute but were reduced to ten men after 10 minutes when center-back Hubner received a straight red card. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Sakura's defense held firm to secure the win until the final whistle. The absence of key player Shinji Kagawa possibly contributed to a somewhat immature performance by Sakura.

Machida Zelvia's Ambition

This season's J1 debutants, Machida Zelvia, displayed ambitious intentions in the previous round of the league cup against title contenders Kashima Antlers. Machida launched an aggressive onslaught from the outset, overwhelming Kashima, who failed to respond. Leveraging the talents of last season's J1 promotion hero, Australian forward Duke, Machida secured a decisive victory with Duke scoring twice. Could their goal this season be a domestic double, or even a treble?

While currently ranked only 9th in the league, Sakura remains within 6 points of the AFC Champions League qualification zone, indicating all is still to play for. On the other hand, Machida suffered a setback in their previous league cup match, succumbing 3-1 at home to Niigata Swan. Their unbeaten home record shattered, they now share the top spot with Kashima, relying solely on goal difference. Both teams' recent form can hardly be considered optimal.

Recent Encounter and Form

Just 20 days ago, Machida narrowly defeated Sakura in the league, thanks to Duke's winning goal. Machida's morale remains high, yet the two-legged nature of cup ties might temper their aggression to a fraction, a strategy Sakura may also adopt.

Niigata Swan vs. Nagasaki Naval: Long-time Rivals Reunite

Niigata Swan's Journey

In the preceding rounds, Swan breezed past minor league opponents, but struggled in a hard-fought 2-0 extra time win against Akita Blue Lightning. With both teams' stamina depleted, Swan's superior strength eventually saw them through. Their cautious approach reflects this season's secure strategy in J2, with Swan being the league's least defeated team, surpassing the second-least by three matches.

Nagasaki Naval embarked on their league cup journey from the first round and managed to defeat two J1 teams in the last two rounds, securing 1-0 victories over Urawa Red Diamonds and Jubilo Iwata. They are clearly the weaker side in both matches, and they are also back in full-time defense after taking the lead by mistake. er domi Nations