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Western Sydney Wanderers begin their title defence away to Kashima Antlers tonight, as the J-League side prepares for their 2015 season. Join The Roar from 9:00pm (AEDT) for live scores and commentary.
The Australian ACL title-holders are looking to put a horrid A-League campaign behind them against a J-League side who finished third last season, and who are just coming out of their three month pre-season.
This could work in favour of the Wanderers, who, despite being in a rut of poor form, have match fitness and awareness on their opponents.
But the Wanderers clearly aren’t the side they used to be, as they reside at the foot of the A-League table with just one win from 16 games played this season. And although last week’s gallant defeat to Adelaide United may lift their spirits – it was still a defeat.
Kashima boast former Japan international Ogasawara as captain, with South Korean defender Seok-ho and Brazilian forward Davi also among their ranks.
They certainly won’t be an easy team to defend against either, with young Brazilian winger Caio winning Rookie of the Year in the 2014 J-League season. Young Japanese midfielder Shibasaki will also be a player to watch, as a box-to-box midfielder who is strong in the tackle, and who can also score a goal or two.
But with new signings Rukavytsya, Tanake and Takahagi all just finding form now, the Wanderers will be difficult themselves. Rukavytsya’s speed in transition will be the weapon that Popovic should look to unleash, with giant-slayer Haliti also a good weapon on the counter.
For the Wanderers to win, the midfield will be a key battle, as well as the ability to stay switched on for 90 minutes.
We know they’re capable of beating big sides like Kashima, but perhaps this season has gotten away from Popovic’s side, and a realistic view of their current form says that they won’t be getting out of their Asian Cup group this time around.
Prediction: Antlers will prove too strong, and win comfortably at home 2-0.
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