The Tokyo Derby is officially back.
16 years have passed since FC Tokyo and Tokyo Verdy last met in the top flight, but the capital rivalry returns to the Meiji Yasuda J1 League this Saturday at 16:00 JST.
J.League fans have waited over a decade and a half for this highly-anticipated clash, which will be shown live around the globe on JLeague.co or a local broadcaster, depending on location.
This game is not merely between two city rivals but two roommates. While this weekend is Verdy's home match, these clubs share Ajinomoto Stadium and that should give Saturday some extra spice as they look to stake their claim.
Though they have faced off in the last 16 years — including in last season's Emperor’s Cup when FCT prevailed in an epic nine-round penalty shootout — Saturday represents the first time since 2008 that these rivals will go toe-to-toe in the top flight.
Following their promotion in 2023, Verdy have been largely successful in their reintroduction to J1, with just two losses through seven matches, while Peter Cklamovski's young FC Tokyo side are coming off two wins in succession.
Will FC Tokyo stake their claim as the top team at Ajinomoto Stadium? Or will Verdy throw down the gauntlet in the fight for the capital?
Find out live on JLeague.co in a Tokyo Derby you won’t want to miss.