Kashima Antlers vs Machida Zelvia Prediction: Both Teams Can't Afford To Drop Points

Kashima Antlers will welcome Machida Zelvia to the Kashima Stadium in the 38th round of the J1 League. 

Let's have a look at the latest J1 League between Kashima Antlers vs. Machida Zelvia, match facts, and betting odds for you to consider!

Note: Odds are subject to change at any time!

Form: WDDWD

Kashima Antlers still have the chance to conclude the season in the top four with a win in this upcoming encounter a feat they last achieved in 2022. With 62 points accumulated from 37 games, they are firmly perched in fifth place and are one point behind fourth-placed Gamba Osaka. 

In their most recent league match, the Antlers comfortably defeated Cerezo Osaka 2-0 away from home. This result extended their unbeaten run in the league to six games where three wins and two draws have been recorded. 

Form: WWLDL

Machida Zelvia have met expectations to the fullest extent this season. In their first ever appearance in the Japan top-flight, the team has accumulated 66 points from 37 games to occupy third place and they still have the opportunity to finish in first place with their progress hindered by a three point deficit. 

A narrow 1-0 home victory against Kyoto Sanga extended their winning streak in the league to two matches. This game also marked the second consecutive time they've kept a clean sheet which doesn't come as a surprise for a team that has the best defense in the league (GA 31).

• Kashima Antlers have drawn their last five home matches in the J1 League.
• Machida Zelvia are currently on a two-match winning streak against Kashima Antlers.
• Kashima Antlers averages 1.39 goals per game when playing at home, and Machida Zelvia averages 1.28 goals per game when playing away.

This will be the second meeting between these two sides in the J1 League. In the previous meeting, Machida Zelvia managed to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory at home.

Kashima Antlers have not had luck in this fixture as they come into this match winless in their last two matches. Home form has been unimpressive, with the team failing to win in their last five matches (D5), which could make it hard for them to secure a favorable outcome. 

Machida Zelvia, on the other hand, will be motivated by their current two-match winning streak in the league to walk away with a favorable outcome here. However, this could turn out to be a tough match to predict, which is why I recommend supporting Kashima Antlers in the draw-no-bet market, given they've been a tough nut to crack at home.

• Draw No Bet - Kashima Antlers for 1.83
• Both Teams To Score - No for 1.88
• Total - Under 2.5 for 1.72