Heart Chief Executive Officer Scott Munn said football fans in Melbourne had voted with their feet, with the event selling out over 24 hours before kick-off.

“We’re delighted that the derby has sold out and thank both sides of Melbourne, red and blue, for showing continued enthusiasm and excitement for this great game,” Munn said.

“The Melbourne derby is becoming an annual spectacle, which attracts colourful and passionate support and we look forward to a great game both on and off the pitch.

“We’re hoping that the previous derby turnouts will be eclipsed on Saturday night, illustrating the growing interest in football in Melbourne.”

Pre-sale tickets were made available to Melbourne Heart members on November 22 and there was an immediate uptake, with four member bays selling out.

Tickets to the match went on sale to the general public on Tuesday November 25 and there has been a steady increase in sales since.

Previous derby crowds at AAMI Park include 26, 395 in February this year and 26, 579 on December 22 2011.

Gates will open at 5.45pm on Saturday, two hours before the 7.45pm kick off, to accommodate for the sell-out crowd.