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February 21, 2024
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Michael Skibbe has truly transformed Sanfrecce Hiroshima since taking the helm as manager in 2022. In his inaugural season, he guided the team to a commendable third-place finish, clinching the J.League YBC Levain Cup and reaching the final of the Emperor’s Cup. He continued this momentum by securing another third-place finish in the following season.
As Sanfrecce prepares to unveil its new stadium, Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima, fans are eager to see what strategies the German coach has planned. The new stadium, a symbol of the team’s growth and ambition, is expected to provide a home advantage and a unique experience for the fans. Let us look back at last season to understand what lies ahead.
After starting the season with three consecutive matches without a win, the Viola ignited their campaign and never looked back. They secured five straight victories, positioning themselves fiercely for a spot in the top three. They achieved their goal in the final two weeks, clinching third place and earning a berth in the inaugural AFC Champions League 2. These achievements are a testament to the team’s potential and set a strong foundation for the upcoming season.
Sanfrecce’s defensive strength was a pillar of their performance, boasting the second-best defense in the league. They allowed just 28 goals over 34 matches, demonstrating their stability and resilience. They were nearly as effective in keeping opponents from scoring on the road as they were in Hiroshima.
However, if an area requires enhancement, it is their attacking performance. The team netted 42 goals throughout the season—18 fewer than champions Vissel Kobe and 21 fewer than runners-up Yokohama F·Marinos.
Nassim Ben Khalifa—Although Sanfrecce retained much of its talent during the winter transfer window, one notable absence for 2024 will be Ben Khalifa, who played a crucial role coming off the bench.
Despite only netting two goals and providing two assists last season, all four of his contributions were pivotal, either tying or winning matches that earned the Three Arrows valuable points. This follows a previous season where he scored five times, often delivering in critical moments.
Yuki Ohashi—Last season, Sanfrecce struggled without a single player reaching double digits in goals, acquiring a dependable striker, a crucial off-season objective. That isThat is where Ohashi comes in. He emerged as the league’s seventh-highest scorer, netting 13 goals and providing three assists while playing for a Shonan Bellmare team that struggled to create many scoring opportunities.
Ohashi’s addition significantly enhances Sanfrecce’s attacking capabilities, instilling hope for a more potent forward line that can compete with their exceptional defense.
Kickstart a new era by aiming for a championship.
Following consecutive third-place finishes, it is clear that Skibbe has laid a solid groundwork in Hiroshima, positioning the team among the league’s elite. The next step is to discover that extra spark needed to elevate them and make a serious push for the title.
Incorporating Ohashi into the squad will undoubtedly strengthen the attack, complementing the talents of Mutsuki Kato and the Brazilian trio of Marcos Júnior, Douglas Vieira, and Ezequiel.
However, this team’s true strength lies in its resilience in midfield and defense. Next Gen J.League standout Makoto Mitsuta has excelled in his first two seasons, providing dynamic two-way play in front of a composed backline anchored by Sho Sasaki, Hayato Araki, and club legend Tsukasa Shiotani.
Let us remember the exceptionally skilled Keisuke Osako in goal, demonstrating remarkable maturity that belies his 24 years.
Excitement is at an all-time high in Hiroshima following the last couple of seasons, especially with the inauguration of a new stadium.
This marks a genuinely new chapter for Sanfrecce, and fans are optimistic it will lead to a fourth J1 title.
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