Shonan Bellmare vs Sanfrecce Hiroshima Prediction & Betting Tips (3 September)

The YBC Levain Cup quarterfinal clash between Shonan Bellmare and Sanfrecce Hiroshima promises a compelling narrative, with both sides arriving at Lemon Gas Stadium on September 3rd with contrasting trajectories. Shonan Bellmare, under the guidance of manager Satoshi Yamaguchi, have endured a turbulent J1 League campaign, sitting 17th with just six wins from 23 matches. However, their cup form has been a different story—Bellmare dispatched FC Tokyo and Júbilo Iwata in earlier rounds, showcasing a more resolute and opportunistic side. Defender Kazunari Oono has emerged as a vocal leader, rallying the squad ahead of this pivotal fixture.

Sanfrecce Hiroshima, led by seasoned tactician Michael Skibbe, enter the tie with momentum and pedigree. Currently fifth in the J1 League standings, Hiroshima have blended defensive solidity with attacking flair, conceding just 18 goals across 24 league matches. Their Levain Cup journey included a dramatic penalty shootout win over Avispa Fukuoka, and their squad depth has been bolstered by the arrivals of Valère Germain and Kosuke Kinoshita. Midfield dynamo Hayao Kawabe and winger Sota Nakamura have been instrumental in driving transitions and creating chances, while goalkeeper Keisuke Osako remains a reliable last line of defense.

Recent meetings between the two sides suggest a tight contest. In their last encounter on May 7th, Hiroshima edged Bellmare 1–0 away, courtesy of a late goal from Nakamura. Yet Bellmare’s home advantage and cup resilience could tilt the balance. Their recent 2–2 draw against FC Tokyo and a spirited 3–3 stalemate with Cerezo Osaka hint at a team capable of punching above its weight when the stakes are high. With the likes of Taiyo Hiraoka and Tarik Elyounoussi expected to feature, Bellmare may find the spark needed to breach Hiroshima’s disciplined backline.

Prediction leans toward a narrow 2–1 victory for Shonan Bellmare, a scoreline that reflects both their underdog grit and Hiroshima’s vulnerability in high-pressure away fixtures. Expect Bellmare to strike early, perhaps through a set-piece routine, before Hiroshima responds with their trademark possession play. A late winner—possibly from a substitute—could seal the upset and send the Hiratsuka faithful into raptures. With the second leg looming just days later, this opening salvo could set the tone for a dramatic two-legged affair.