Kashima vs Ventforet Kofu - Emperor Cup

The history between Kashima and Ventforet Kofu lends this Emperor Cup fixture an extra layer of spice, and when the two walk out at the home ground on September 23, 2026, recent encounters will be on everyone's mind. Manchester City face the K-League All-Stars in Seoul on Wednesday as part of their pre-season tour of Asia.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Emperor Cup contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. The Reds continue to retain an interest in the midfielder Manu Kone and left-back Lewis Hall, while one remaining high-profile departure this summer could come in the form of Marcus Rashford.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Kashima and Ventforet Kofu have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. Chelsea have been encouraged to consider a surprise move for Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, with former Red Devils midfielder Quinton Fortune believing the Cameroon international could suit their style of football.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. The Lille midfielder excelled in his fledgling role at his first major international tournament, particularly noticeable in a group-stage bout with Brazil.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 1-1. More than just three points is on the line at the home ground — this is a fixture that could shape the narrative of both clubs' seasons. It is understood that his next move is most likely to take him abroad - and potentially to the Premier League.