Match Summary
Albirex Niigata defeated Sanfrecce Hiroshima 2:0. The match was played in J1 League 2023. Goals were scored by S. Mito 25′, H. Araki 28′ (o.g.). 2 yellow cards were shown. Albirex Niigata had 42% possession while Sanfrecce Hiroshima held 58%. Albirex Niigata had 16 shots (6 on target) compared to 10 (2 on target) for Sanfrecce Hiroshima. Albirex Niigata made 5 substitutions, Sanfrecce Hiroshima made 5.
Match Events
Key match events between Albirex Niigata and Sanfrecce Hiroshima — 2 goals and 2 cards recorded during the match.
assist: E. Matsuda
Own Goal
Match Statistics
Albirex Niigata had 42% possession against Sanfrecce Hiroshima's 58%. Albirex Niigata registered 16 shots (6 on target) while Sanfrecce Hiroshima managed 10 (2 on target). Corner kicks: 6–5. Fouls committed: 5–12.
Lineups
Albirex Niigata lined up in a 4-4-2 formation under R. Matsuhashi, while Sanfrecce Hiroshima deployed a 3-4-2-1 under M. Skibbe.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Albirex Niigata is 6.77, compared to 6.20 for Sanfrecce Hiroshima. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Albirex Niigata's highest-rated starter is Y. Hoshi (6.86), while Sanfrecce Hiroshima's best-rated player is Y. Chajima (6.20).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Albirex Niigata have contributed 2 goals and 3 assists this season, led by Y. Komi (2G). Sanfrecce Hiroshima's starters account for 0 goals and 0 assists, spearheaded by —. Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Albirex Niigata deploy 4 defenders rated 6.80 on average, against Sanfrecce Hiroshima's 3-man backline averaging —. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Albirex Niigata field 4 midfielders averaging 6.76, versus Sanfrecce Hiroshima's 4 rated 6.20. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Albirex Niigata start 2 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 3 for Sanfrecce Hiroshima averaging —. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 43% for Albirex Niigata and —% for Sanfrecce Hiroshima. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Albirex Niigata's starters have collected 5 yellow cards this season, compared to 0 for Sanfrecce Hiroshima. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Albirex Niigata's starting XI is 28.7 (youngest: Y. Komi (23), oldest: Y. Hoshi (33)), while Sanfrecce Hiroshima average 34.0 (youngest: Y. Chajima (34), oldest: Y. Chajima (34)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Albirex Niigata's starters average 23 league appearances each, versus 1 for Sanfrecce Hiroshima. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Albirex Niigata have recorded 0 wins, 3 draws and 3 defeats. Sanfrecce Hiroshima show 4 wins, 1 draws and 1 losses from their last 6 outings.
Albirex Niigata
Sanfrecce Hiroshima
Head to Head
Albirex Niigata and Sanfrecce Hiroshima have met 2 times — Albirex Niigata won 1, Sanfrecce Hiroshima won 1, with 0 draws. Their rivalry dates back to 2025. A combined 3 goals have been scored across these fixtures, averaging 1.50 per match (1 for the home side, 2 for the visitors). Both teams scored in 0 matches (0%). Over 2.5 goals landed in 0 games (0%), making it a fixture that tends to produce goals. The highest-scoring encounter finished 0–2 in 2025.
1
Albirex Niigata
0
Drawn
1
Sanfrecce Hiroshima
Recent Meetings (2)
API data: 15 Mar 2026