“The excitement in the stadium is transmitted to the players.”
The excitement in the stadium is conveyed to the players.
Last year, during the third round of the Emperor’s Cup, the match against FC Tokyo was held for the first time in 12 years as an official game, and it took place in an unusually vibrant atmosphere, even though it was a Wednesday night. Prior to the match, the players mentioned, “We won’t do anything to provoke the opposing team’s supporters,” yet during the penalty shootout, they responded by putting their hands to their ears and making heart fist pumps toward the blue and red stands. The various cheers and atmosphere directed at the players on the pitch were palpable, fueling their intense performances. Witnessing this, even the substitute players in the stands rose to chant. It was a unique moment. Saito Kosuke, the team captain, reflected, “That sense of excitement… The players watching from the stands were also energized. That single match made me realize why we couldn’t afford to lose.”
“That’s why we understand how important the next game is. We will prepare to win.”
Similar to Saito, in the two matches played last season and this season, the players have felt the true essence of the “Tokyo Derby” and the significance of the task at hand.
The 122-year-old tradition of El Clasico between Real Madrid and Barcelona also brings the crowd’s excitement to a peak, fueled by historical context in each region. This fervor translates onto the field, marking it as one of the largest derby matches in the sports world, drawing worldwide attention. The Tokyo Derby, too, is steeped in history and rivalry, igniting passions among the fans and supporters of both teams. As manager Hiroshi Jofuku noted, it has the potential to become a national phenomenon.
In anticipation of this match, Tsunashima Yuto expressed, “It’s finally time to overcome that disappointment.” In the Emperor’s Cup, he had a crucial opportunity with a header from Alhan’s long throw but missed, which led him to think, “If I had scored that, we could have won.” In the previous match, he felt frustrated when the equalizer was scored right in front of him. “Having grown up in the academy, I have been told not to lose to that team for over a decade. Knowing all the backgrounds, I feel an even stronger resolve not to lose.”
Tokyo Verdy fans and supporters do not sing chants that express anger towards the opposition. The players on the field are the ones who understand this best. “Verdy supporters provide their strength to the players and fight alongside them. This is true not only for this match but for every game. We want to show our support through results and celebrate together,” said Saito. The emotions of those wearing green are indeed being conveyed.
About 40,000 attendees are anticipated for the match against FC Tokyo. Since it will take place at the opponent’s home ground, it is expected that there will be loud taunts. “There is an experience and an atmosphere here that cannot be replicated or created in other matches. I believe they will foster an environment that reflects that,” remarked manager Hiroshi Jofuku, who was involved in the founding of FC Tokyo, has served as the opposing team’s manager twice, and knows better than anyone what makes the “Tokyo Derby” so intense.
As a supporter of Tokyo Verdy, no match will be more thrilling than this one. Let us show our unwavering support for our brave green warriors now more than ever.
Your heartfelt support will reach the players.
(Text by Naoki Tanaka and El Gracia Tokyo Verdy / Photos by Atsushi Kondo)
“The excitement in the stadium is transmitted to the players.”
The excitement in the stadium is transmitted to the players, creating an electric atmosphere that can change the course of a match. This was evident during last year’s third round of the Emperor’s Cup, where Tokyo Verdy faced off against FC Tokyo. The match, being the first official encounter in 12 years, took place on a Wednesday night yet still thrummed with passion and fervor.
Before the match, players had expressed a commitment to focus solely on their performance, despite the rival supporters’ presence. However, during the nail-biting penalty shootout, their determination transformed into an interactive display—I remember the sight of players cupping their ears and pumping their fists toward the passionate blue and red stands. This unique exchange of energy between fans and players resulted in electrifying on-field performances. Even the bench players, previously limited to the sidelines, were inspired to rise and chant in solidarity. Saito Kosuke, the team leader, noted, “That sense of excitement… The players watching from the stands were also getting excited. That one match made me understand why we couldn’t lose.”
The Importance of Home Ground Support
“That’s why we know the next game is important. We’ll prepare to win,” echoed Saito, affirming the significance of fan support for their upcoming matches. The concept of ‘home ground advantage’ becomes even more pivotal in derby matches where crowd engagement can sway the game’s momentum.
The Rivalry: A Historical Perspective
Rivalries such as the El Clasico—spanning 122 years between Real Madrid and Barcelona—highlight how deep-rooted histories can elevate the stakes for players and fans alike. The Tokyo Derby, characterized by its fierce rivalry and rich tradition, has everything it takes to capture national attention. “I believe the Tokyo Derby holds tremendous potential,” stated Hiroshi Jofuku, the team manager, recognizing its significance in the realm of sports.
Overcoming Past Disappointments
Looking ahead to future matches, Tsunashima Yuto reflected on previous disappointments. “It’s finally time to get over that disappointment,” he stated, recognizing the importance of seizing opportunities as they arise. Having witnessed how close they came to victory, he felt the weight of historical rivalry. “As someone who grew up in the academy, I’ve been told not to lose to that team for over 10 years. This personal history fuels my determination,” he added.
Support from Tokyo Verdy Fans
What sets Tokyo Verdy’s supporters apart is their unwavering positivity. They refrain from directing negativity toward the opposition, which resonates deeply with the players on the field. “Verdy supporters lend their strength to the players and fight alongside them. It’s a shared journey,” Saito emphasized. The communal energy is distinctive, not only during derbies but in every match they play. The commitment from fans translates into powerful encouragement for the players, ultimately driving them to perform to the best of their abilities.
Anticipating the Next Derby Match
As the anticipation builds for the next match against FC Tokyo, approximately 40,000 attendees are expected at the venue. Being at the opponent’s home ground, the atmosphere is sure to be vibrant with vocal supporters. Manager Jofuku aptly commented, “There is something that cannot be experienced or created in other matches. I think they will create an atmosphere that will make you feel that.” This encapsulates why derbies are distinct; they create memories that linger long after the final whistle is blown.
Benefits of Fan Engagement in Sports
- Enhanced Performance: Studies have shown that players perform better in front of supportive crowds.
- Increased Motivation: Positive crowd interactions can boost players’ morale and intensity during critical moments.
- Community Building: Support from fans creates a strong bond between the club and the community.
Case Study: The Impact of Support in Historical Matches
| Match Date | Final Score | Home Team | Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-09-14 | FC Tokyo 1 – 2 Tokyo Verdy | FC Tokyo | 35,000 |
| 2023-05-02 | Tokyo Verdy 0 – 0 FC Tokyo | Tokyo Verdy | 40,000 |
| 2021-10-30 | FC Tokyo 3 – 1 Tokyo Verdy | FC Tokyo | 32,000 |
Personal Insight: The Power of Support
As someone who has witnessed multiple Tokyo Derbies, the atmosphere is truly unmatched. The palpable tension, the roar of the crowd, and the palpable connection between players and supporters create an experience that is both exhilarating and unforgettable. Such vibrant encounters remind us why we celebrate sports—they unite us, drive us, and ultimately inspire us.
Your heartfelt support to the players is what makes this experience fully come alive. Continue to cheer for our brave green warriors, knowing that every chant and cheer resonates deep into the heart of the team.
(Text by Naoki Tanaka and El Gracia Tokyo Verdy / Photos by Atsushi Kondo)
