Kobe won the 2019 Emperor's Cup and are among the top contenders for this season's championship, but only managed to draw 1-1 against a sturdy Yokohama FC in the opening match. However, Andres Iniesta-led attacking style is still alive and kicking, and striker Furuhashi, has produced immediate results. Newcomer Douglas is also a forward with a good record, and it is expected to maximize his contribution at Vissel. With the rise of young players such as Yuta Goya, Vissel Kobe can cherish the dream of winning the league.  
 
On the other hand, Hiroshima is steady as ever under manager Jofuku Hiroshi, who is now in his third year at Sanfrecce. In the opening match, they were off to a great start, knocking down Kashima 3-0, and allegedly solving their scoring issues from the past season. The key player is Tsukasa Morishima, who now wears the No.10 jersey. The “young commander," who also scored a goal in the opening match, has the potential to lead the team to the title race.