Shimizu S-Pulse are thrashed by Sanfrecce Hiroshima with 1-4 in their last match, thus suffering 5 successive defeats lately. They have only won 1 game in August, with problems in defensive end.
As for Kashima Antlers, they have beaten Vegalta Sendai with 2-1 in their last game. They have won all of recent 4 matches, with at least 2 goals scored in each of these games.
With hot form, Kashima Antlers are expected to win this away match.