This year¡¯s J. League title race has become a two-team duel between Kashima Antlers and Kawasaki Frontale, but the picture at the other end of the table is not quite so clear.
One thing, however, is certain ¡ª with four games of the season remaining, nothing short of a miracle can save Albirex Niigata from relegation. Bottom side Albirex, who have been a mainstay in the top flight since 2004, are 12 points from safety with 12 points to play for, and a goal difference of minus-36.
But predicting which two teams will join them in J2 next season is far more difficult. Omiya Ardija are currently second-bottom on 24 points, with three-time champions Sanfrecce Hiroshima also in the drop zone on 27 points. Of the teams currently occupying safe ground, Ventforet Kofu have 28 points, Shimizu S-Pulse 30, Consadole Sapporo 34 and Vegalta Sendai 36.
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