After securing promotion back to the Japanese top flight, everyone associated with Shimizu S-Pulse would have been content with simply staying in the division for 2026.

However, they've amassed 25 points from 19 matches, placing them only nine points behind third place midway through the season.

On the downside, they've suffered four defeats in their last six games, with their sole victory being a 3-2 win over Vissel Kobe.

In their most recent match, Cerezo Osaka won 4-2, overtaking Shimizu in the standings. Tadahiro Akiba's team is now six points clear of the relegation zone.

Although they're in the top half, they must keep relegation in mind, especially against Gamba Osaka, who are below them.

Their fourth-place finish in 2024 indicated that Gamba Osaka, the Black-and-Blues, were poised for a strong return, but Daniel Poyatos's team has underperformed this season.

With three losses in their last four games and one draw, Gamba Osaka is now facing the threat of a relegation fight.

Nevertheless, a three-game winning streak from April 29 to May 6 has kept them out of immediate danger.

In their March encounter, Gamba Osaka emerged as 1-0 winners, with Ryoya Yamashita scoring one of his five goals this season.

Shimizu S-Pulse possible starting lineup:

Oki; Takagi, Takahashi, Sumiyoshi, Yamahara; Uno, Bueno; Matsuzaki, Inui, Capixaba; Gunji

Gamba Osaka possible starting lineup:

Ichimori; Handa, Nakatani, Fukuoka, Kurokawa; Mitsuda, Lavi; Yamashita, Usami, Alano; Hummet