On May 6, 2025, Tokyo Verdy faced off against Yokohama FC in a crucial J1 League match at Ajinomoto Stadium, emerging victorious with a 2-0 win. This victory marked Tokyo Verdy's fifth win of the season, bringing their total points to 20.
Both teams came into the match with contrasting fortunes. Tokyo Verdy, positioned 14th in the league, aimed to bounce back after a disappointing loss to Urawa Reds. Meanwhile, Yokohama FC, languishing at the bottom of the table in 19th place, sought to end their losing streak. The stakes were high as both teams battled for crucial points.
The match kicked off at 16:00 local time, with referee Yuichi Imamura overseeing the proceedings. From the outset, Tokyo Verdy showed intent, with Yuto Someno threatening the Yokohama goal within the first few minutes. In the 4th minute, Someno executed a direct volley from a floated ball, forcing a save from Yokohama's goalkeeper, Akinori Ichikawa.
Despite the early chances, both teams struggled to create clear-cut opportunities as the match progressed. Yokohama FC had their first shot on target in the 7th minute, with Junya Suzuki attempting a long-range effort that went wide. The first real chance came for Yokohama in the 27th minute when a header from Kaito Shinbo went off target.
However, it was Tokyo Verdy who broke the deadlock in the 36th minute. A well-placed cross from Koki Tachi found Someno in the box, who headed the ball into the net, scoring his second goal of the season. This goal shifted the momentum in favor of the home side.
As the second half began, Tokyo Verdy looked to extend their lead. Someno had another opportunity shortly after the restart, but his shot was blocked. Yokohama FC responded with a chance of their own in the 56th minute, when Musashi Suzuki broke through the defense but failed to convert.
Tokyo Verdy's coach, Hiroshi Jofuku, made significant changes to the lineup, bringing in fresh legs to maintain their advantage. The substitutions paid off as the team controlled the pace and flow of the game, with players like Daiki Fukazawa and Koki Tachi contributing to a solid defensive performance.
In a desperate attempt to equalize, Yokohama FC made tactical substitutions, bringing on Solomon Sakuragawa and Keisuke Muroi in the 75th minute. Despite their efforts, they struggled to penetrate the organized Tokyo Verdy defense.
The match reached a climax in stoppage time when Kazuki Kumatoriya, a rookie making his professional debut, scored the second goal for Tokyo Verdy. In the 91st minute, Kumatoriya cut in from the right and unleashed a left-footed shot that deflected off a defender and found the back of the net, sealing the victory for Tokyo Verdy.
This win was significant for Tokyo Verdy, as they not only secured three points but also demonstrated their resilience and ability to adapt under pressure. With this victory, they moved closer to mid-table safety, while Yokohama FC faced their third consecutive defeat, deepening their struggles.
As the season progresses, Tokyo Verdy will look to build on this momentum, hoping to replicate the form that saw them finish 6th last season. The team's defensive solidity and attacking prowess will be key as they aim for a successful campaign ahead.
