Albirex Niigata are pitched against the Hornets of Fukuoka at the Denka Big Swan ahead of the eight matchday of the Japanese Elite League. Enthusiasm levels contrast sharply as the tenth placed guest look to further worsen woes of the hornets who currently fight through nightmares at the bottom.

Albirex Niigata (20th)

Recent Form: L-D-D-L-D

For a team that lost the first three games of the season, Albirex Niigata has shown impressive strides in their league conquest, fostering a four-game running unbeaten streak in last week’s six goal thriller against the Nerazzurri of Gamba Osaka. Although trapped in the bottom spot, Niigata is one of the most stubborn sides in the league so far, registering goals in five of seven games played.

Alburex home form sees the sides stacked with goal-scoring stalemates against Gamba Osaka (3-3). Tokyo Verdy(2-2) and Cerezo Osaka (2-2)

They would be expected to repeat the previous winning performance against Fukuoka last August, as all points matter before their next away visit to Vissel Kobe.

Next Opponents: Vissel Kobe

Avispa Fukuoka: (10th)

Recent Form: L-W-W-W-D

Avispa Fukuoka relished three consecutive victories before last week’s 2-2 brawl against Machida Zelvia. The team expected to run away with the wind, but the last-minute goal by the opponents ruined their chance to perfect a winning quadruple.

They recently reached level away from home, with two wins and two losses in the last four games featuring a goal in each appearance.

Fukuoka needs all hands on deck if they are to rally up momentum ahead of their next league rivals, Urawa Red Diamonds.

Next Opponents: Urawa Reds

TABLE SORTS - Albirex Niigata vs Avispa Fukuoka

Expert betting tips

Although Albirex Niigata may have their hands full, based on the style of play we have watched from them in recent games, Fukuoka stands very little chance of a decent exhibition against Albirex Niigata. We envisage a straight forward victory for the hosts. The betting options here are:

+ Over 1.5 goals at 1.60 odds from Bet365

+ BTTS at 2.12 odds from Betway

+ A stalemate at 3.07 odds from 1xbet

Alternatively one could consider a 1-1 correct score as a possible outcome from these scoring sides.