Albirex Niigata vs Lion City Prediction: This Derby will end in the home's favour

Albirex Niigata will lock horns with Lion City at the Toa Payoh Stadium on Thursday. The two heavyweights head here without a defeat since the season's commencement, and we expect an open contest in this mouthwatering clash. The White Swans have only lost to Lion City Sailors once in their last ten meetings.

The White Swans started their campaign with back-to-back victories over Balestier Central and Young Lions, respectively. They have scored six times while conceding twice in the last two matches.

The champions snatched the SPL under the watch of Lion City last season as they led with two points at the top of the log. Albirex Niigata have made some great signings, and we hope they can retain the SPL trophy this season.

The home side kicked off their campaign with a win over Tanjong Pagar. The Sailors then handed the newly promoted Brunei side their first defeat in the Singapore Premier League. Lion City scored three times before a consolation goal from the visiting side. Lion City have been immense in their recent games and looks ready for revenge over their arch-rival.

The Sailors wrapped up last season in the second spot after losing four games in a row. Albirex Niigata took advantage of their bad run of matches as they leapfrogged Lion City at the top of the log.

The last twenty meetings have seen Albirex Niigata with thirteen wins, while the Sailors have won once and six games ending in a share of the spoils. Lion City forward Kodai Tanaka will face his previous side for the first time tomorrow after winning the 2022 Player of the Year. Lion City's efforts to triumph over their arch-rival have proved abortive in recent games, and we can't see them pulling off any surprise here. Bet on a home win for 1.96.

Both sides will definitely get a goal apiece; bet on BTTS and over 2.5 goals for 1.68.

We expect more than a goal before halftime for 2.09.

Good luck!