The results of the practice match are here
<Kanta DOI>
Q: Please tell us about the feeling of finishing the match without conceding any goals.
A, in today's match, I partnered with Henrique TREVISAN as center backs. He was constantly giving instructions, which made it very easy to play and there were many moments where I was saved by that. I also want to become a player who can actively communicate from the back line.
Q. It seemed like the defensive line was communicating closely.
Also, since the opponent was Sanfrecce Hiroshima, there were many players with high technical skills at their feet, and there was a risk of them heading towards the goal with a single vertical pass. I believe we were able to communicate and take care of each other, especially regarding positioning.
Q. You raised the defensive line and also had a compact defense. How was the defensive intensity?
In the second half of the second period (four 45-minute segments), the defensive line dropped overall towards the end. I think it would have been better if we could have pushed it up a bit higher. Raising the defensive line makes the team more compact, and it also creates situations where the defensive midfielders can more easily regain possession. Today, I played a total of 60 minutes, but first, I want to work on maintaining a high intensity for the full 90 minutes.
Q. The camp will end tomorrow. Please tell us about any positive outcomes or challenges you encountered during this period.
A, I think my body is slimmer compared to other players. I want to further improve my physical strength.
<Takahiro KO>
Q, he brought variety to the attack and showed stability in the build-up.
A, we maintained a good sense of distance, and with many players involved while maintaining fluidity, I believe we created scoring opportunities in both the first and second halves. Regarding build-up play, it is a role expected of a defensive midfielder, and I want to steadily build on it through matches and training. I am gradually feeling a sense of progress, so I aim to further improve the accuracy.
Q. What kind of response have you felt again, and what differences do you notice compared to Albirex Niigata?
A, personally, I feel that our teamwork and other aspects are gradually improving. Having transferred from Albirex Niigata this season, I once again feel that Tokyo's soccer style is fast and vertical. Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI also demands speedy play from the players. Looking overseas as well, I think fast vertical soccer is the mainstream, so I want to adjust to that.
Q, Is it correct to say that Takashi's role is to maintain balance in the midfield position?
A, I myself need to get used to the fast-paced football in Tokyo, and on the other hand, I have also sought that kind of style. If I can adapt to both playing calmly with the ball and quickly advancing vertically, I believe I can grow into a player who can be used regardless of tactics, and I want to aim even higher.
<Kei KOIZUMI>
Q: How do you feel about the entire camp?
A. During the camp period, I believe there were many opportunities for the players to challenge themselves in training and practice matches to embody the style of soccer the team aims for. Of course, there were more instances where things didn’t go well, but I believe the timing to take on challenges is only now. To some extent, we want to challenge ourselves without fear of failure, have more discussions, and make the three weeks until the league opener a time to further improve from here.
Q. Does the number of times you communicate and take on challenges lead the team in a positive direction?
A, I believe it is necessary to keep discussing how we can improve and increase our chances of winning. During last season's camp, we played with a certain level of decisiveness, and I think there are still plays this season that are in the challenge phase. Of course, results are important, but right now, taking on challenges is the most important thing. During the camp period, it wasn't all bad, so I want to carefully adjust the scenes where good aspects appeared as well as the areas that need improvement and correction.
