Gamba Osaka, who were aiming for their third consecutive win, suffered a heartbreaking draw against Buriram United FC. in the ACL Elite League Stage MD3. While there were some positive takeaways, such as taking 16 shots—twice as many as their opponents—and creating numerous scoring opportunities from the first half, and JUANPE, who made his senior debut, showing glimpses of his abilities, they ultimately suffered from a lack of finishing ability.

For Gamba, who will be returning to the league stage after just three days' rest, the match against Machida will be a crucial one where they can apply the lessons learned from their game against Buriram United FC..
"As we're up against the league leaders, both offense and defense will be crucial." This match is best described by Head Coach Myojin. In the midst of a series of matches, with various players being used, the new formation employing a defensive midfielder has allowed Usami to conduct the attack and MITO to showcase his characteristic dynamism. The attacking power is on the rise, and Machida is the perfect opponent for Gamba to understand where they stand right now.

Machida, currently leading the league, boasts the most goals scored in the league and is tied for second-lowest number of goals conceded. They have kept a clean sheet in their last seven official matches, and Djebari expressed confidence in defeating Machida, JEBALI, "We know they are a team with a solid defense and have been winning without conceding any goals, but we have also created many chances in recent matches, and I think it's just a matter of a little bit of precision."
Tani and Shoji, who previously played for Gamba, are tightening up the backline, and Ravi is also making his presence felt in this season's Machida team, which also emphasizes ball possession, but JEBALI says, "We want to play without hesitation, including seeing how far we can go."

Since Machida was promoted to J1 in the 2024 season, the head-to-head record between Gamba and Machida has been one draw and three losses. Gamba is aiming for a victory to break this losing streak, but it goes without saying that this season's Machida is not just a team with a solid defense.
"Machida is in first place because they can score in ground battles, aerial battles, and set pieces" (Higashiguchi). With Ichimori suspended for this match, expectations are high for Higashiguchi, the oldest player on the team. The goalkeeper, who has absolute confidence not only in his shot-stopping abilities but also in handling high balls, is highly motivated for his 399th J1 appearance, saying, "If the defense holds strong, chances will come."

Machida, currently competing in ACL Two, won their away group stage match against Shanghai Shenhua 1-0. Despite having only 2nd year of junior high school, they are expected to take on Gamba with the momentum from their three consecutive wins in ACL Two. New signings in August, Japan national team players Ogawa and Soma, will be coming on in the second half, so "I don't think the opponent will be at a disadvantage due to the schedule. They've also made changes to their lineup in ACL Two, so I think they'll come with a good team," said Head Coach Myojin, not hiding his caution.

"Machida's fundamental strengths are set pieces, height, and crosses" (according to Head Coach Myojin), but this season Machida is also moving the ball around, mainly through Ravi.
The seasoned Higashiguchi says, "I think it will be a difficult match, but we still have to get three points. It will be a match where we have to give it our all."
Gamba will give it their all and challenge the league leaders.