When the year started, FC Machida Zelvia had never played a single match in the top flight. Now, the newly promoted club in their debut Meiji Yasuda J1 League season finds themselves on top of the table and leading the chase for the title.

It’s been a remarkable campaign in Machida and one that continues on Sunday at 18:00 JST, when Zelvia will try to move one step closer to the J1 crown against Shonan Bellmare in a match that will be live on JLeague.co and broadcasters around the world.

Zelvia are fresh off of a clean sheet against the league’s leading goal scorer Léo Ceará and Cerezo Osaka, continuing their string of terrific defensive showings. They’ve given up the second-fewest goals this season, anchored by Japan international goalkeeper Kosei Tani.

Zelvia have also strengthened themselves for their title push, adding Yuki Soma. The Japan World Cup star made his club debut on Wednesday and could be just what the team needs to finish their magnificent season on top.

Bellmare will not make things easy on Zelvia, with the terrific Lukian leading the way. He’s fourth in the league with 11 goals and will spearhead a team that will give the league leaders their all as they continue their fight to avoid relegation.

Will Lukian lead Bellmare to a result in Machida? Or will Zelvia move closer to a debut J1 title?

Find out live on JLeague.co!