The big picture

Vissel Kobe come in 5th on the ladder with 27 points; Mito Hollyhock are 19th on 9. Vissel Kobe have the higher position to protect.

Vissel Kobe are 19–10–2 in J1 League 2026, averaging 1.6 goals for and 1.1 against.

Mito Hollyhock are 8–22–3 in J1 League 2026, averaging 0.9 goals for and 1.9 against.

Form

Vissel Kobe have won three of their last five and most recently beat Ratchaburi 3–2.

Mito Hollyhock have won zero of their last five and most recently lost to Sanfrecce Hiroshima 0–3.

Mito Hollyhock have lost their last six.

Vissel Kobe arrive on a 3-game winning streak.

Head to head

We have no previous meeting between these two on record, so this one is a genuine first look.

Players to watch

For Vissel Kobe, watch Ren Komatsu (0.7 goals a game in 2026-27) and Kento Hamasaki (1 goals a game in 2026-27).

For Mito Hollyhock, watch Arata Wantanabe (0.4 goals a game, 1 assist in 2026) and Chihiro Kato (0.2 goals a game, 1 assist in 2026).

At Kobe Wing Stadium

Vissel Kobe have won 13 of their last 18 at Kobe Wing Stadium.

What the numbers say

On form, ladder, Vissel Kobe go in as clear favourites.