Can Sanfrecce keep up their surge?

Sanfrecce Hiroshima are one of the hottest teams in the league, having lost just one of their last nine matches. That terrific run of form has taken them into the top four and put them firmly into the title race.

This week, the Viola travel to a Gamba Osaka side that lost to rivals Cerezo last week and remains struggling with depth. That said, the Black and Blue had won their previous two and will surely be looking to get back on the right track.

A trip to Suita isn't likely to be easy for Sanfrecce, but the visitors will aim to target a Gamba defense that has been vulnerable at times. That's a task largely for Makoto Mitsuta and Júnior Santos, who have been in excellent form and are the spark behind much of Sanfrecce's surge.

Kashima try to keep pace in title race

Kawasaki Frontale still lead the league, but they are only one point ahead of Kashima Antlers as the title race continues to thrill.

Frontale take on 17th place Shonan Bellmare this week, which has to be seen as a favorable fixture, though all-Kanagawa affairs are frequently tense clashes. Meanwhile, Kashima welcome a Sagan Tosu side whose excellent defense could pose challenges as they chase the league leaders.

Breaking down the visitors is a task that will fall to a committee, but Arthur Caike is sure to be key, having scored in each of the Antlers' last two games. Caike is emerging as a third dangerous goalscorer to go along with Ayase Ueda and Yuma Suzuki, which might be just what the Antlers need to keep the heat up on Frontale all season long.

Urawa can’t stop drawing

It was amazing when Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo started the season with six straight draws and now Urawa Reds have one-upped them with seven.

The Reds' streak dates back to April 2, meaning the Saitama side have not had a league match end with a winner since March 19 — a wait of over two months.

On Wednesday, Cerezo is in their crosshairs, fresh off derby delight. Will the Sakura be able to break the streak with a win? Can Urawa finally get over the hump and take all three points? Or will it be an eight straight stalemate for the Reds?

We'll find out on Wednesday, but one thing is for sure: It has been one fascinating run of league games.