<Review of the previous match against Kyoto>
Even in the midst of a tough situation, there were moments when a bright light shone on Tokyo's future.
In the second match of the away back-to-back games, the clash against Kyoto SANGA F.C. forced a tough battle from the beginning. Just 5 minutes into the first half, the goal net was shaken, but we escaped trouble due to a foul call. We managed to withstand the opponent's momentum with a big save from Jakub SLOWIK, ending the first half under pressure.
As the second half begins, the game becomes somewhat open with both sides increasing their counterattacks. In this context, compared to Kyoto, which steadily connected plays to finish, Tokyo struggled to create effective chances. After showing a fierce attack in the second half against Kashiwa Reysol in the previous match, they found it difficult to break through the opponent's defensive block.
The players who revitalized the team were Kota TAWARATSUMIDA, who was brought on in the 12th minute of the second half, and Yuta ARAI, who was brought on in the 33rd minute of the second half.
Tawaramizuki player utilized his breakthrough ability to penetrate deep into the opponent's territory, creating a scene where he supplied the last pass in front of the goal. Arai player also took some time to get into the rhythm due to the intensity at the ball, but towards the end, he connected a sharp ball into the goal area with a cross from a cut-in, leading to a chance.
It was a tough match where we couldn't break through to score, allowing an additional goal in stoppage time. The frustration of not earning points weighs heavily on our hearts, but the young determination to revive the team and turn the game around from behind was the only remaining glimmer of hope for the future.
The rookies standing on both wings will bring joy to Tokyo. That day should not be far off.
<Preview>
The league opening match was a victory against Urawa Reds with a score of 2-0, but since then, there have been no wins in the last three official matches. There are still challenges remaining for Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA to achieve one of this season's goals of "consistent performance."
On the other hand, during that time, many players, including Ryunosuke SATO, who is registered as a second team player with FC Tokyo U-18, made their first appearances of the season and took their first steps.
Immediately after losing to Kyoto SANGA F.C. in the previous match, Tsubasa TERAYAMA struck the pitch with his fist. He expressed his feelings at that moment by saying, "Even though the fans and supporters were cheering loudly during the match, I felt a sense of regret."
In the subsequent Levain Cup match against Cerezo Osaka, Leon NOZAWA covered his face with his uniform after losing 0-1. After the match, he expressed his frustration, saying, "I had been building up through individual practice after training. Therefore, it's disappointing and frustrating that it didn't lead to a result."
Tokyo, which is showing a new face with the rise of young players, will welcome Yokohama FC at home this matchday. The playmaker for Yokohama FC is Hirotaka MITA, who grew up in Tokyo's academy and loves the blue and red more than anyone. Facing an opponent who knows the heat of Ajinomoto and the strength of Tokyo, we cannot afford to fight poorly. To ride the upward momentum from here, only victory is required.
The match day program is here
[Interview with Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA]
Q: We lost to Cerezo Osaka in the Levain Cup, but I think the performance was good. How do you want to carry that into tomorrow's match against Yokohama FC?
A positive point in the match against Cerezo was that we created about eight clear scoring chances. Although our ball possession rate was significantly lower, the areas where the opponent held the ball were not dangerous zones. In that sense, we are not concerned about the ball possession rate. As for areas to improve, while we did create chances, we needed to maintain possession a bit more and take control of the game ourselves.
In Niigata, we were more focused on maintaining possession of the ball. Now, what we are working on in Tokyo is, I think, more challenging. Balancing whether to keep possession or to move forward quickly is indeed difficult. However, I have a strong feeling that we are definitely moving in a positive direction, so I am not worried. It is also good news for us that the young players performed well in the Levain Cup. Based on their performance, they have proven that they are worthy players who deserve to be given sufficient opportunities in the league matches.
There were several players who had not been given many playing opportunities until now, such as Shuhei TOKUMOTO, Taishi Brandon NOZAWA, and Seiji KIMURA, who showed good performances, which is a positive point for us. That is why I felt a certain anger about losing the match. On the other hand, I also felt satisfied. It was a match where I could truly feel that Tokyo's future is bright.
Q, by expanding the options for bench members, the range of tactical changes in the second half has increased, which must have been a positive factor for the coach as well.
<div>A, it is not only from the second half but also from the start that good acceleration can be achieved. The rule allowing five substitutions has a significant impact. I believe there are dramatic changes in the match during the long final 30 minutes. It is still fresh in our memory that Ryoma WATANABE, Shuto ABE, and Koki TSUKAGAWA, who came on as substitutes in the second half, dramatically changed the flow of the game. It is very unfortunate that WATANABE, ABE, and Kuryu MATSUKI are absent, but the players showed good performances in the Levain Cup. Of course, having more options for the bench members is a plus, and the increased level of competition for positions within the team is good news. I believe young players like Kota TAWARATSUMITA, Tsubasa TERAYAMA, and Yuta ARAI have proven they have the level to perform well in the league matches. Both MATSUKI and KUMADA are still 19 and 18 years old, and we look forward to their success as well. Tokyo has many young players on the roster. We will continue to encourage their growth and hope they will develop into players who will lead Tokyo's future.
Q: How do you want player Tawaramizuki to use his clear weapon, dribbling?
A. I think players Tawara Tsukida and Arai have been able to firmly perform the play we have expected from them since the first day.For players who challenge one-on-one situations on the front line, especially on the sides, I tell them to play boldly and keep going even if they fail. I have told them from day one that if they don't do that, no play opportunities will come their way. I don't choose to use young players simply because I like them. However, for young players who have a hungry spirit and can express it properly, I want to help their growth. That is why I demand a hungry spirit from young players. I only ask them to have a hungry spirit and to play boldly with courage. I think the two are doing that well, and including player Terayama, things are moving in a good direction. They make me want to encourage their growth. If young players truly want to grow and succeed, I am ready to support them. For players in their mid to late 20s, who are a bit older, I demand high performance. For foreign players, I expect them to show difference-making play.
Q: What are you looking for in terms of tactics?
A, learning defensive tactics is simple. Player Tawara Tsukida has a great asset. I just tell him to make good use of one-on-one situations. If there is no defensive support in a clear one-on-one situation, he should keep challenging aggressively. If he doesn't take on the challenge despite delayed covering, such a player is not needed. Because it's a one-on-one situation, he takes the challenge, and if he loses the ball, naturally the coach yells from the bench. He has to endure that. But do it. Even if I, the coach, am angry, he ignores it and keeps going. That is what I expect from him, and I believe he is doing it.
[Player Interview]
<Hotaka NAKAMURA>
Q, please review the Levain Cup match against Cerezo Osaka.
A, there is absolutely no change in motivation depending on the tournament. We did not think about the league matches and focused solely on giving our all in the FC Osaka match. In the Levain Cup, the lineup changed significantly, so there was hardly any time to unify our intentions or confirm tactics. I thought it would be a difficult match, but player Higashi took the lead, and I believe we were able to stay focused on fighting first and foremost. Especially in the first half, although there were times when we were under attack, everyone defended firmly, and I think we were able to create a good flow for ourselves. Regarding the conceded goal, there are aspects I need to reflect on myself. Even if we managed to get shots on goal, if we don't score that one goal in the first half, the match unfolds like that. FC Osaka surely took that one goal. It reminded me once again that football is about scoring goals. Personally and as a team, I felt we need to pursue this further.
Q: You wore the captain's armband, what were you conscious of?
A, it was my first time ever being captain in an official match or in my life. I thought it would be impossible to force myself to act like a captain and speak out, so I focused on playing as usual. In the second half, there were many moments when we were under heavy attack, and the team had to endure those times. Everyone was getting tired, and our formation was stretched out. Wearing the captain's armband made me realize once again the importance of making small course corrections with a word from the captain during tough times and leading the team. The presence of Morishige, Diego TABA, and Higashi felt truly reassuring. I believe they have gone through many hardships, but they continue to lead Tokyo, and I felt their greatness once again.
Q: There are players who have transferred from Tokyo to Yokohama FC, but what are your thoughts on this?
A, I think it is a huge threat that there are two players who know us well, such as Hirotaka MITA and Takumi NAKAMURA. They are actually key players for Yokohama FC, so it makes things difficult. Currently, we have lost two consecutive official matches. Although we are in a tough situation with injured players, I don't want to use that as an excuse, and especially at times like this, the players on the pitch want to show a strong fighting spirit.
Q, what do you think about the presence of Takumi NAKAMURA?
As a teammate who competed for the same position, I truly respect him. I think our playing styles are completely opposite, and I studied and learned by watching his play during practice every day. I believe Nakamura also observed my strengths, and we each had skills the other didn't possess. Every day was very stimulating, and I practiced daily with a strong desire not to lose in the position battle. Having such a player as an opponent makes me even more determined not to lose. First and foremost, I want to do my best to help the team win.
Q: I think it's a place to show how much we've both grown during the time apart.
A, I don't really think about it much. I know that Takumi NAKAMURA is very skilled. Having gone through the J2 League and returned to the J1 League, even if things have changed, I wouldn't be very surprised. I know he is that amazing of a player. Therefore, there is a part of me that can only be satisfied by winning. However, I want to play without thinking too much about that.
Q: This season, I think every match has been played with considerable intensity. What do you think?
A, this year, I absolutely have the feeling that I don't want to run away from anything. I absolutely don't want to lose to the opponent in front of me. I don't want to run away from my own weaknesses either, and I want to fight with determination. However, as a result, I was sent off in the match against Kashiwa. Players like Nagatomo and Morishige also spoke to me, saying that it is important to always keep passion and composure together. I truly experienced that firsthand, and it was a really valuable lesson. I caused a lot of trouble for the team, but I believe I must never waste this experience. By being able to apply that experience in the second match, I think I was able to grow even more. However, I absolutely do not want to change my passionate play, and I absolutely do not want to change my fighting spirit. I want to keep my head cool and my heart burning as I do my best.
Q: What motivated you to play with passion this season?
A, until now, even though I thought I was playing with confidence, I actually lacked confidence and showed a weak side at the crucial moments. With that mentality, there’s no way to reach the top; Nagatomo kept telling me I lacked that fierce determination. This season, I want to completely get rid of my lack of confidence and negative thinking, and play with my feelings fully on display. Nagatomo will be playing this season as well, but I have no intention of giving up a starting spot in any match. I truly believe you need that level of determination.
Q, that feeling is also reflected in wearing the number 2 jersey.
A, the number 2 jersey has been worn by many great predecessors and carries a lot of weight. There is pressure as well. Until now, I wore number 37 because I didn't want to bear that pressure. However, I realized that mindset wouldn't work, and unless I become a strong player who can push back against it, I won't be able to reach the stage I ultimately want to. So, I made up my mind to wear number 2. I think that determination is now showing in my mindset.
Q: When did you hear about the "glaring feeling" from player Nagatomo?
A, it has been said since last season. Nagatomo has been playing as right side back all the time, and I was avoiding it thinking I couldn't do it anymore because of that. Nagatomo saw through that. When Nagatomo was deciding whether to retire after the World Cup, I was wondering what I should do if he retired like that. It was a frustrating time, but I decided to continue, and I think I have to do it to the extent that Nagatomo would say, "I leave it to you now." When I decided to play in Tokyo this season, I signed with that determination. Recently, I was told, "You finally got fired up." I am truly grateful. I want to show even more intensity.
<Keigo HIGASHI>
Congratulations on your 350th appearance in the J1 League.
A, thank you very much.
Q: Please share your thoughts after the first four matches of this season.
A, we won against Urawa in the opening match, drew against Kashiwa, and lost away to Kyoto, so it’s not a good start. I think it’s important to clearly identify the issues and aim higher while making improvements. Right now, we have injured players, Matsuki is away with the national team, and things feel a bit hectic. We want to somehow overcome this together as a team.
Q: In the second season under Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA, player Higashi continues to play in the anchor position. Has there been any change in your mindset in the second season?
A, we must continue what we built up last season into this season. It's about the style of soccer we aim for, but also about focusing on the competitive aspects, the final quality, and the crucial moments where we must be particular. This is a season where we need to be thorough, including myself. Along with improving the team, I want to clear these points one by one.
Q: I think the opposing team has realized that Tokyo is connecting the ball and is applying stronger pressure in defense. Have you noticed any changes from the opponent?
A, the opponents will also play their own style of football. I think we have faced teams that come at us aggressively from the front and opponents who apply high-intensity pressure continuously. Of course, there is compatibility, but we have to do what we can do. Not only the style, but the final details are important in every match. After finishing three games, I once again realized that this is the key.
Q: What is your attitude towards practice?
A, Personally, I really enjoy the regular practice and matches. I am able to approach them with that mindset, and I want to keep doing this throughout the entire season. I believe that if this leads to victories, the enjoyable aspects will expand even more, and I want to make it a season like that.
Q: I would like to ask about achieving a total of 350 appearances in the J1 League. First, please share your honest thoughts.
A, I don't really feel it much, but looking back, I still remember my first appearance. My first appearance was during my time at Oita Trinita, in an away match against Urawa at Saitama Stadium 2002. Since then, reaching 350 appearances went by in the blink of an eye. There have been many stories beyond just the matches, and that's how I've come this far. I want to express my gratitude to everyone involved. I have come to truly understand the importance of my family, and I am really thankful to the fans, supporters, players, and coaches. I couldn't have come this far alone, and I want to continue working hard so that, with the support of such people, I can keep playing in more matches.
Q: Among the 350 matches, is there a particular match that stands out to you?
<div>A, I definitely think it was my first match appearance. Even if asked, "Do you remember your 75th match?" I certainly do not remember it. There are milestones like 100 matches and 200 matches, but the first match I played as a professional is the most memorable. If I had forgotten how I felt at that time, I wouldn't be here now. I believe the 300th and 350th matches serve as milestones to recall those feelings. Being told about playing 350 matches, I think it's good to reflect back on the very first match again.
Q: What match stands out to you in Tokyo?
A, There are so many that it's difficult. Of course, I'm happy about the matches we won, but the matches we lost also left a strong impression on me.
Q: The J1 League only has 34 matches in a season, so even playing full-time for 10 years won't reach 350 matches. Considering that, I think it's an incredible record. Is there a reason or secret for being able to consistently play in matches up to this point?
A, I don't think there is any particular secret. For every match, I have prepared and taken care of myself. I believe it would have been impossible for me alone to appear in 350 J1 League matches, and though it might sound strange coming from myself, I think it's an amazing record. There is no doubt that I have come this far with the support of many people, and I truly feel that. As long as my body can move and my spirit holds, I want to keep playing as a soccer player.
Q: Recently, I think the young players in Tokyo have been standing out. From your experience of playing in 350 matches, if there is anything you would like young players to pay attention to, please share.
A, I would be happy if you could feel something not through words, but by always watching how I act at the clubhouse. I want you to see and feel that. I'm not doing anything special, but I believe that doing the ordinary things every day has led to this moment. Even if it's just one or two people, I would be glad if they could feel something from what I do and connect it to the future.
Q: This season, vocal support has been allowed in all seats. The opening match saw about 40,000 fans and supporters, and for the first time in a while, Ajinomoto Stadium was filled with a great atmosphere. Do you feel like it's back to the way it was before the pandemic in the 2019 season?
A, from the opening, you created a really great atmosphere, and many fans and supporters came rushing even to away games. I felt once again that it gives us power. Since it had become normal to have no cheers, I thought cheering with voices felt refreshing. After all, I felt that playing matches in such an atmosphere is the best for soccer and sports. I believe good plays are brought out by the cheers, and I want even more to be brought out. For the people who support us, I want to play with even more effort.
