Vissel Kobe vs Kashima Antlers Prediction & Betting Tips (17 October)

Vissel Kobe enter their October 17 clash against Kashima Antlers riding a wave of momentum that has seen them win four of their last five matches. The team, led by head coach Takayuki Yoshida, has found a rhythm in both attack and defense, with Yuya Osako continuing to be a focal point up front. Their recent 1-0 win over Avispa Fukuoka showcased their ability to grind out results, even when not at their attacking best. The midfield trio of Yamaguchi, Hatsuse, and Sasaki has been instrumental in controlling possession and dictating tempo. Playing at NOEVIR Stadium Kobe, where they’ve won 80% of their last ten home games, Vissel will be confident of asserting dominance early.

Kashima Antlers, meanwhile, arrive in Kobe as league leaders, but their form has been slightly more erratic. Under manager Daiki Iwamasa, the team has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in their 3-1 win over Shonan Bellmare, where Léo Ceará and Yuma Suzuki combined effectively in the final third. However, their away record has been less convincing, with just two wins in their last five road fixtures. Defensively, they’ve looked vulnerable against high-pressing sides, and their midfield has struggled to maintain cohesion under pressure. The Antlers will need to tighten up their lines and avoid conceding early, especially against a Kobe side that thrives on early momentum.



The tactical battle promises to be compelling. Vissel Kobe’s possession-heavy style will clash with Kashima’s more direct approach, making midfield transitions a key battleground. Both teams have shown a tendency to rely on set pieces, and corners could play a decisive role. Kashima’s aerial threat through Ueda and Anzai will test Kobe’s backline, while Kobe’s overlapping fullbacks could stretch Kashima’s defense. Discipline will be crucial, as both sides have accumulated yellow cards in recent fixtures. With the league title race heating up, this match could have significant implications for the final standings, and neither team will want to drop points at this stage.

While Kashima Antlers edged the reverse fixture 1-0 back in March, Vissel Kobe’s current form and home advantage suggest a different outcome this time. The hosts have tightened their defense and improved their shot conversion rate, while Kashima’s inconsistencies away from home remain a concern. Expect a closely contested match with moments of individual brilliance tipping the balance. Our prediction leans toward a 2-1 victory for Vissel Kobe, with Osako likely to find the net and Kashima responding through Ceará. It’s a scoreline that reflects Kobe’s edge in form and tactical discipline, especially on home turf.

• Summary: Vissel Kobe is going head to head with Kashima Antlers starting on 17 Oct 2025 at 10:00 UTC at Noevir Stadium Kobe stadium, Kobe city, Japan. The match is a part of the J1 League .
• Vissel Kobe Feedinco Rating: 6.98
• Kashima Antlers Feedinco Rating: 6.93