Kashima Antlers
- Kashima have won 10 and lost only two of 13 J1 fixtures in 2026, holding top spot in Group EAST.
- They have a 10-point lead at the top and have won four and drawn one of their last five matches in all competitions.
- The Antlers have kept four clean sheets in April.
- They often play from a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 and focus on quick, vertical transitions.
Machida Zelvia
- Machida are third with 22 points from 11 matches, conceding eight more goals than Kashima (15 to 7).
- They have won three of their last five, including two in the AFC Champions League knockouts.
Head-to-Head
- Their recent meetings (2024 - 2026) have seen wins shared between the sides.
- Kashima beat Machida in March 2026 (3-0).
- Machida beat Kashima in August 2025 (3-0).
Kashima Antlers
- Léo Ceará will lead the attack.
- Keisuke Tsukui is suspended, forcing possible defensive reorganisation.
- Yuma Suzuki has contributed goals in recent league fixtures.
Machida Zelvia
- Erik is the visitors’ main goal threat.
- Yuki Sōma has provided creativity, scoring and assisting in both league and continental play.
- Defenders Gen Shōji and Neta Lavi helped keep three successive clean sheets in ACL knockouts.
Betting Insights
- Kashima are the clear favorites to win this top-of-the-table clash.
- There is perceived value in an away bet given Machida’s recent continental run and counter-attacking threat.
- Machida may be affected by fatigue and possible rotation after their intense ACL schedule.
Prediction
Kashima look likeliest to take points, but Machida remain capable of an upset given their defensive solidity and counter-attacking potency.
