Get Newsletter
Notification products, updates
February 6, 2024
Credits to J League Image Gallery
No team captivated J.League fans in 2023, quite like Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo. Their style of play was bold and relentless, consistently delivering a thrilling spectacle that left viewers on the edge of their seats. Fans who tuned in knew they were in for an exhilarating experience with each match. However, as we look ahead, the pressing question is whether we will see the same dynamic and entertaining Sapporo squad in 2024. To find answers, let us look closer at their journey and future prospects.
In the 2023 season, Consadole finished in 12th place, but they earned the unfortunate title of conceding more goals than any other team in the Meiji Yasuda J1 League. Despite this defensive struggle, they also boasted the impressive feat of having the third-highest scoring tally in the entire league. Sapporo showcased their capability by securing points against the league’s top three teams, demonstrating their potential. However, paradoxically, they stumbled against some of the clubs at the lower end of the table. In summary, they were a team characterized by their prolific scoring and high concession rates, placing them firmly in the mid-table.
Despite these extremes, the team showed a commendable balance in their attack. Yuya Asano emerged as a key player, leading the squad with an impressive tally of 12 goals. Additionally, ten remarkable players made significant contributions by scoring multiple goals throughout the season. This collective effort was a defining feature of their play, showcasing a unity that enabled them to upset league champions while occasionally faltering against teams struggling at the bottom of the standings.
Tsuyoshi Ogashiwa was a crucial figure for Sapporo, leading the team with six assists and scoring six goals, thus making him an integral part of their offensive strategy. His recent move to FC Tokyo presents a notable challenge for Consadole as they seek to fill the void left by his departure. Nevertheless, the transfer fee from his exit offers the club a valuable opportunity to strengthen its roster in other areas, enabling them to address gaps and enhance overall team performance.
Ryu Takao has joined the ranks to reinforce their defensive capabilities. Under the leadership of manager Mihailo Petrović, who is known for his aggressive tactical approach, effective two-way fullbacks are vital for success. Takao’s transfer from Gamba Osaka is seen as a significant addition, as he brings the ability to contribute to the attack while solidifying a defense that has shown vulnerability. While his former club faced defensive challenges in 2023, Takao has been part of more robust Gamba backlines in previous seasons, and he will be tasked with instilling much-needed stability in Sapporo’s defense.
The primary goal for the 2024 season must be to improve their defensive performance. Although Consadole is expected to continue scoring, the greater challenge lies in maintaining their aggressive style while effectively limiting their opponents’ chances. Achieving this balance could ultimately be the deciding factor in whether they can ascend into the top half of the table or risk stagnation—or even worse.
On the offensive side, several questions loom large. Can Thai sensation Supachok Sarachat elevate his game to become a true standout star in Sapporo? Will Asano be able to maintain his status as a consistent scoring threat? How will loan signing Musashi Suzuki perform in his return to the Sapporo Dome, and can he find his rhythm again?
Most crucially, can these attacking players harness their energy and contribute to improving defensive efforts? This collective responsibility will be vital for Consadole, who will need their entire roster—from forwards to defenders—to deliver strong performances in 2024, especially against teams battling relegation.
Securing clean sheets in crucial matches and grinding out results should be paramount for Petrović as he strives to lead his team into the upper echelons of J1.
Stand by your favorite team! Head to our site and let them know you’re with them all the way.
Football News Today | La Liga 2 | Saudi Pro League | Major League Soccer | J League | J League News | EFL Championship | Brazilian Serie A