On the morning of the second, a critical playoff for the 84th Meijin title was held between 9th Dan Takuya Nagase and 8th Dan Tetsuro Itodani at the Shogi Hall in Shibuya, Tokyo. This matchup is significant as the winner will gain the opportunity to challenge the reigning Meijin Sota Fujii, who currently holds six titles. Both players entered this playoff having tied for the top of the A-class ranking with an impressive record of 7 wins and 2 losses, making the stakes particularly high for this encounter.

The clash between Nagase and Itodani highlights contrasting playing styles. Nagase, recognized for his deep pre-game research, approaches the game with a calculated and strategic mindset. On the other hand, Itodani tends to thrive in unpredictable circumstances where he can showcase his strength, encapsulating a dynamic rivalry based on their differing personalities and tactics. This playoff not only tests their skills but also their adaptability in facing each other's unique strategies.

The outcome of this playoff is poised to impact the future of Shogi, especially since the winner will take on Sota Fujii, a dominant figure in the sport. Fujii's current six-title reign includes prestigious titles such as Ryu-O, Oi, Kisei, Kio, and Osho, which makes the challenge all the more daunting for whoever secures the title of challenger. This match is crucial not only for the individuals involved but for the broader community of Shogi enthusiasts following these top-tier players closely.