<Review of the previous match against Cerezo Osaka>
The 2024 season of Peter Tokyo has set sail from the away ground of Osaka. In a game where both sides continued to play with high intensity, it was the '71' who shone, having made a determined transfer to the new blue and red home.
In the 34th minute, trailing by one goal, Kuryu MATSUKI sharply reacted to a bending mid-range shot. He broke through the opposing defenders and changed the course with the outside of his right foot, shaking the net, and then spread his arms in a pose of joy. Responding to head coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI's decision to start him, he scored the team's first goal of the season in his Tokyo debut.
In the 75th minute, once again chasing a one-point deficit, his decisive ability brought Tokyo the equalizer. Jája Silva powerfully broke through the left side and made a cutback to the center. There, he ran in from behind and brilliantly struck the ball into the goal.
Jumping up and spreading both arms towards the fans and supporters behind the goal, he struck the emblem on his left chest with a broad smile and expressed his joy with a strong fist pump. "I always wanted to play in the match. I really had the confidence that I could do it once I got the chance," his strong feelings overflowed in the goal celebration, and the roar of his soul, saying "what had been building up came out," echoed through YODOKO SAKURA STADIUM.
"I thought that I might finally be accepted by the fans and supporters of Tokyo. I am grateful to Tokyo for believing in me and to Coach Peter for using me, and I want to achieve even more results."
The high potential that lies within goes without saying. Contributing to the team with bold pressing from the front line, they continue to burn with a determination for victory. "I'm glad I was able to leave results like this. I want to respond with results next time as well. We couldn't earn 3 points today, but I want to bring victory with my goal next time," they reflect on the home opener.
This is truly a decisive opening match. Dressed in blue and red uniforms, the season has started to showcase their evolution and true value.
Match Preview
In the second season of Peter CKLAMOVSKI's tenure, the J1 League opening match, which marked a new beginning, ended in a 2-2 draw against Cerezo Osaka. It was a tough match where we were always trailing, but new midfielder Ryotaro ARAKI scored two goals, earning one point away. ARAKI, who made a sensational debut, expressed his determination, saying, "I had confidence that I could perform if I got to play. I want to thank Tokyo for believing in me and Coach Peter for giving me the opportunity. I want to achieve even more results." Having spent the last two seasons with limited playing time and facing tough moments, he smiled when asked about his extravagant celebration after the goal, saying, "Maybe it was just something that had built up inside me."
The promising new talents are not limited to Araki. Tsuyoshi OGASHIWA, Takahiro KO, and Keita ENDO, who did not get playing time in the opening match, also have sufficient achievements in the J1 League. This week, they face the highly regarded Sanfrecce Hiroshima, but ENDO confidently stated, "It doesn't matter who the opponent is. Since it's a home game, we don't need to be on the defensive. We are 100 percent prepared." The 2024 season's home opener. Tokyo will let the first "You’ll Never Walk Alone" of the season resonate throughout Ajinomoto Stadium.
This matchday program is here
[Interview with Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI]
Q, please reflect on the match against Cerezo Osaka.
A, there were parts where growth was expressed during the match. It is important to continue the play that was demonstrated in the Cerezo Osaka match. The players tried to give their all in the tough away J1 League opening game, showing what they have built up so far. They fought with dedication and a strong mentality. Also, there were many lessons learned in the Cerezo Osaka match. For example, how to control the game and what kind of attacks pose a threat to the opponent. Scoring two goals is a good sign that will lead to the future. Regarding defense, we conceded goals from set pieces. It is important to learn from mistakes and goals conceded during the match. The defensive rules and efforts we continue to work on are gradually improving. We just need to keep building so that we can fully demonstrate the style of play the team aims for throughout the 90 minutes.
I want to showcase what we have built up in the match against Sanfrecce Hiroshima. I would like to demonstrate how we have improved our performance since the last match and what kind of football Tokyo aims to play this season.
Q: There was also a practice match against Hiroshima during the camp period. What impression do you have of it?
Whether it is a few weeks from now or six months later, both teams have information about each other as opponents. We respect our opponents and believe it will be a great match. It is important to show a battle that excites our fans and supporters and to deliver an inspiring game. We are focused on building the style of football we aim for step by step from here. Hiroshima is expected to apply pressure from the front line, but first and foremost, it is important not to fear such an opponent and to see it as a good opportunity. We want to fight bravely and smartly, targeting the opponent's weak points. We want to make it an exciting match with many goals scored.
Q: This season, it feels like the depth of players in each position has increased.
A, everyone is competing well. The most important point is what kind of performance they can show in matches and training, and individual good plays lead to the team's performance. We comprehensively evaluate how the players who could not participate in official matches performed in practice games and how much fatigue they had. We want to select many players and send more than 11 players onto the pitch, but football doesn't work that way (laughs). We observe their daily awareness and attitude, and how they continue to work hard. The strength of all players is needed during the season. We believe that when each player gets a chance, they will demonstrate what they have. There are 38 league matches in total, as well as the Levain Cup and the Emperor's Cup. Considering the number of matches, I think full strength is required.
[Player Interview]
＜Kuryu MATSUKI＞
Q: The opening match ended in a 2-2 draw. How do you perceive the content and the result?
A, the match content was not what we had envisioned, but considering it was a difficult opening away game, I think it was good that we were able to bring back at least 1 point. There are still many areas that we can improve.
Q: New signing Ryotaro ARAKI quickly scored 2 goals. What kind of play do you expect from ARAKI?
A, Araki's charm lies in his high-quality play in front of the goal. He is a player involved in scoring, providing assists, and has a wide variety of kicks. His defensive intensity is also high, and in the match against Cerezo Osaka, he supported the team both offensively and defensively. I myself always watch Araki's movements closely to bring out his strengths.
Q: How has your feeling changed compared to the last two seasons since becoming captain?
A, I think I need to lead the team better. That doesn't mean I will change anything drastically, but I want to focus on good play during daily practice and demonstrate actions and words that earn the respect of my teammates.
Q, please share your enthusiasm for the fans and supporters who are looking forward to the home opening match.
In the opening match against Cerezo Osaka, the support was so loud that it hardly felt like an away game, and that actually gave strength to the players on the pitch. I believe we will receive even louder cheers at home, and I hope we can create an atmosphere together that makes it difficult for the opponents to play. We players will also show a match that responds to everyone's passion.
<Ryotaro ARAKI>
Q: Please reflect on the opening match.
A, as for the match development, it was a tough time throughout. Since the defensive time became long, I think the way we manage the game needs improvement. First, we want to increase the time we keep possession of the ball. For that, each player needs to adjust their position when receiving the ball. This was something we were able to do during the camp, but there was stiffness and a unique atmosphere typical of the opening match. If we can correct that, I believe we will improve even more.
Q: You had a great performance with 2 goals. What kind of value do you think it brings?
A, scoring two goals in the league opener will positively impact the future and has boosted my confidence. From here, I want to be more eager, face forward, and deepen my confidence.
Q: Were you able to achieve visible results in the opening match? Has the trust from those around you deepened further?
A, there are parts where I feel that way. He said, "If I get to play in the match, I am confident I can perform," so I’m glad he was able to show it with a goal. Emotions overflowed after scoring.
Q: Please tell us your impression of Sanfrecce Hiroshima.
A, before the season started, we played a practice match against Hiroshima, but the members were different, and I personally felt again during the match against Cerezo Osaka that practice matches and official games are completely different. During the game, I want to take advantage of the opponent's mistakes without missing them, respond well, and move the game forward. I believe the most important thing is to correct the issues that came up in the match against Cerezo Osaka.
Q: Please tell us your current feelings as you prepare for the home opener.
A, if anything, I have been looking forward to playing at home for a long time. I want to score goals in front of the fans and supporters and earn 3 points at home. I am looking forward to competing at Ajinomoto Stadium.
<Go HATANO>
Q: Please reflect on your own performance in the opening match against Cerezo Osaka, Player Go HATANO.
A, we were unable to win, and the frustration remains. As a team, we managed to achieve the minimum result of a draw, but since we conceded 2 goals, there is still much we need to work on. As a team, we want to establish a solid base style of play and approach the ball contests with intensity. If we can also increase the number of times we recover second balls, I believe we could have played an even better match.
Q: I think there were positive points, such as the team managing to equalize twice.
A, being able to catch up during that time when we seemed likely to lose makes me think there might be a good future ahead. Since we scored multiple goals, I believe there will be no problem as long as the defensive players, including myself, can firmly close the center and defend. I want to keep raising my voice from the very back.
Q: Please tell us your impression of this match's opponent, Sanfrecce Hiroshima.
Team A is a team that works hard with high intensity. Including the defensive line, they give the impression of having a solid defense. I don't think it will be a game with many goals scored, so I want to stay focused and fight for the full 90 minutes myself.
Q, it's the home opener for the 2024 season.
A, I have heard that you were able to win many games at home last season. We want to continue that momentum this season and deliver many victories to our fans and supporters. We aim to win matches and celebrate with a refreshing cheer.
