Review of the previous match against Urawa Reds
This was the first away game under Peter CKLAMOVSKI's management. The opponent was Urawa Reds. On that day, over 49,000 spectators gathered at Saitama Stadium 2002, and the stadium was filled with excitement from the pitch warm-up.
At the same time, both teams were troubled by the humidity. The rain that had been falling intermittently since morning was hovering over the stadium like steam.
The first half was a development where the excitement seemed to transfer directly to both teams. Tokyo maintained a compact formation while increasing their pressing from the front, and Urawa launched quick counterattacks aiming for Tokyo's backline.
On this day, Tokyo's big chance came in the 20th minute of the first half. In the midfield battle, Kuryu MATSUKI picked up a loose ball and sent a through pass into the left half-space (the midpoint between the center and the side). Kota TAWARATSUMIDA, who made an inner lap, broke free and returned the ball to Matsuki, who was running into the penalty area. Before the opponent could fully mark him, Matsuki connected with a direct shot. Unfortunately, it was touched by the opposing goalkeeper and hit the right post, going off target, but Tokyo's quick counterattack shone as they broke through the narrow area to create a scoring opportunity.
Just before the end of the first half, a big crisis arose. Sekine's middle shot was deflected by a teammate's block and flew towards the corner of the goal, but Jakub SLOWIK, sensing the trajectory of the ball, made a big save by changing the direction of his dive and deflecting it with his right hand. The goalkeeper's incredible reflexes kept the goal safe, and the first half ended.
As the second half begins, the hot and humid environment affects the high-intensity football in Tokyo. In the 11th minute of the second half, Ryoma WATANABE created a decisive scene with his individual skill, but gradually the team's energy levels dropped, causing the formation to stretch and making it difficult to apply pressure from the front line.
As the team struggled to get out of their own half for an extended period, Seiji KIMURA was brought on in the final stages to ensure risk management and prevent conceding goals. On the other hand, when they regained possession, they launched counterattacks and continued to keenly aim for a goal, creating a chance for a free kick just before the end of the match.
Although there was a longer period of being at a disadvantage compared to the two home matches, the intensity and fighting spirit were maintained until the end, leaving a strong impression of their transformation into a fighting group.
Match Preview
Since Peter CKLAMOVSKI took office in June, the team has kept a clean sheet in three consecutive league matches, with two wins and one draw, remaining unbeaten. In the 3rd Round of the Emperor's Cup, they also triumphed in the penalty shootout to advance to the Round of 16. The team's condition is showing a rapid upward trend.
Coach Klamovski said, "I believe that the actions of everyone in the club are reflected in our results. We are united and taking each day as it comes, and that is showing in our performance," while praising the team's strong start, he continued with a shake of his head.
"There is still much we can do. I believe that by working step by step without being complacent, we can get closer to our dreams."
The final match before the league break this round will welcome Kashima Antlers to Ajinomoto. While it is not an easy mission to break through the opponent's solid defense while containing the powerful two-top of Yuma SUZUKI and Yuki KAKITA in the front line, the momentum of the team is in Tokyo's favor. Given that both teams engaged in a fierce battle that went to penalties in the recent Emperor's Cup, conditioning leading up to the match will be a key factor in determining the outcome.
Tokyo's summer has just begun. From here, the team will evolve further, and the hot 'Pita Tokyo' will take center stage in the midsummer.
The matchday program is here
[Interview with Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI]
Q: After a fierce battle against Verdy, we achieved victory. Please reflect on the match once again.
It was a cup match, and various things could happen in such a situation. We didn't know what would happen until the very end, and it truly became an intense game. As a team, I believe we were able to perform to the best of our abilities. Of course, I wish we could have decided the match within 90 minutes, and there were several chances to clinch the game.
Thanks to the efforts of the players, I believe it became a game that will remain in the memories of fans and supporters for a lifetime. In the match against Verdy, the players demonstrated their individual mentalities, characters, and love for the club. They showed a level of play that made everyone proud, embodying the spirit of "Blue and Red is Tokyo."
Q: Please tell us your impression of Kashima Antlers, who we will be facing this match.
A, I think it will be a tough match. We want to prepare thoroughly as usual and make it a game where we give our all to earn 3 points. No matter who is in the lineup, I believe they will prepare well for the battle. We will prepare with full effort and aim to make it a match that allows fans and supporters to leave with smiles.
Q: Is your stance to focus on the upcoming match and give it your all?
A, if we don't focus on the match in front of us, we might lose sight of what is important. We hope to do our best in the next match and move forward step by step.
Q: It has been announced that Shuto ABE's complete transfer to RWD Molenbeek (Belgium) has been agreed upon between the clubs. From Coach CKLAMOVSKI's perspective, how did Shuto ABE appear?
A, I am happy to have fought on the same team as player Abe. As you can see from his current hair color, I know how much he loved Tokyo. I believe he made a big decision to pursue his own dreams. I wholeheartedly support his success 100 percent.
[Player Interview]
＜Kuryu MATSUKI＞
Q: On July 12th, in the Emperor's Cup 3rd Round, we defeated Verdy after a penalty shootout.
A, since the opponent was Verdy, I believe the fans and supporters were very motivated, and we also approached the match with the intention of overwhelming the opponent. Verdy worked hard, so it was a tough game, but the fans and supporters delivered very passionate cheers, and with their support, I think it was great that we were able to secure the victory.
Q. Since Peter CKLAMOVSKI took office, the team has been unbeaten in 4 official matches. What do you feel has changed significantly with the coaching change?
Coach A is asking all players to change their mindset, especially demanding strict defensive awareness. I believe that since Coach CKLAMOVSKI took over, the team has been thoroughly committed to sprinting back when the ball is lost and physically defending in front of their own goal. On the offensive side, there hasn't been a major change; it feels like Coach CKLAMOVSKI is incorporating his style while retaining the strengths of the previous style of play. I think we are gradually getting closer to the football we aim for. So far, we have kept a clean sheet in the league matches, but it is very important now to continue playing these kinds of games and accumulate points. By suppressing the opponent without conceding and fighting to score even one more goal, I believe our ranking will improve.
Q: It seems that Coach Klamovski emphasizes not only tactics but also the mental aspect of approaching the game.
A, I believe he is a coach who is deeply passionate about the game, approaches us with strong feelings and enthusiasm. He is not always intense; when talking individually, he also lightens the mood with jokes, creating a relaxed atmosphere.
Q: Since Coach Klamovski arrived, Matsuki has increased the number of shots. Has there been any change in awareness on the offensive side?
A, my awareness of attacking hasn't changed much, but since the system has shifted to a double defensive midfield, I intend to go forward boldly when I can while maintaining balance. What has changed more than my attacking mindset is my awareness of countermeasures and risk management. The defensive midfielders and center backs must cooperate and always stay alert, or else we will be vulnerable to counters, so I am very conscious of maintaining that balance.
Q: After this match, Shuto ABE will transfer to RWD Molenbeek (Belgium). What does Shuto ABE mean to Matsuki?
Since joining Tokyo, I have had many opportunities to play alongside Abe in midfield, learning various things and being inspired. So, honestly, I do feel a sense of loneliness, but at the same time, I also feel that I cannot afford to lose. For the sake of the team and for Abe, we are only aiming for victory in this match. First, our goal is to finish without conceding any goals, and then to secure the win. I want to fight with all my strength.
Q: Please share your enthusiasm for the match against Kashima Antlers.
A, we are only seeking victory. I think it is very important to be able to play a home game before the break, so first, we want to finish without conceding any goals and secure the win as a foundation, while building up the quality of our play.
<Kei KOIZUMI>
In the Emperor's Cup match against Verdy, both full-backs exemplified hard work.
A, I still have a long way to go myself, but Yuto NAGATOMO, the left side back, led the team with his play running for 120 minutes at 37 years old. I can only say it's truly amazing. I thought that in cup matches, the result is more important than the content. Since it was a match against Verdy, it went into extra time, but I think I was able to focus solely on winning and play.
Q: Do you feel that you are successfully managing your condition during the consecutive matches?
A, I always focus on being well-prepared. The Emperor's Cup is a knockout tournament, so I thought there would be no easy matches. I prepare to be ready for whatever happens.
Q: This match will be a reunion against Kashima Antlers.
A, we have faced each other many times, and many of the members who were with us at that time are still playing for Kashima. My play is one thing, but many players know a lot about my personal side.However, I also know what kind of team Kashima is and how the players play. As I mentioned before, I only have good memories of the team Kashima, and I am filled with gratitude. It is an exciting match.
Q: Since becoming coach Klamovski, there is an impression that the intensity has been sharpened. Do you feel you can approach this match with more confidence than in the previous encounter?
I believe the high intensity required in practice is also reflected in the matches. Since we face Kashima in consecutive games, it is important for all players to be well-prepared before the match, which will lead to a good performance. In the Emperor's Cup, we had a 120-minute battle with Verdy, so we want to prepare to fight without letting our guard down.
