Review of the previous match against Verdy
At the end of the first half, we are two goals behind. Furthermore, we faced a difficult situation by having a player sent off just before the end of the first half, putting us at a numerical disadvantage.
However, the blue-red warriors fighting on the pitch and the fans and supporters filling the "away" goal area at Ajinomoto never gave up. Despite being at a disadvantage, even as they entered halftime and welcomed the second half kickoff, the voltage in the stands continued to rise.
Furthermore, there was another man sitting on the Tokyo bench, burning with fighting spirit. Just two days before this crucial match, the complete transfer to the blue and red was announced for Keita ENDO.
"I could feel the energy of the support from the bench, and I couldn't let the fans and supporters leave like that. (When the opponent scored their second goal) they performed in a way that provoked the Tokyo supporters, and that switched something in me. I thought, when I get in, I'll show it through my play."
In the 16th minute of the second half, the number 22 player was brought in to the left wing position. My situation strongly connects with the desire to produce results in a difficult match. For him, who was burning with fighting spirit, it was truly a determined entry onto the pitch.
"Until now, we hadn't achieved results, but I thought that if we could secure one in this important match, we would be recognized. I felt that the timing of the announcement of my full transfer was an opportunity."
That feeling will bear fruit soon.
In the 23rd minute of the second half, Kosuke SHIRAI made a sharp interception in his own half and sprinted down the right side. He advanced to a high position and delivered a ground cross, which was pushed in by number 22 running into the center, finally signaling Tokyo's counterattack.
A battle that does not feel outnumbered. As the players said after the match, "The support from the fans and supporters pushed us forward," it truly is the "12th player" that uplifts the team and changes the atmosphere of the stadium.
And a dramatic turn of events awaited in the second half's additional time.
Go HATANO's long feed was contested by Henrique TREVISAN near the opponent's penalty area, and the loose ball was collected by Teruhito NAKAGAWA. Receiving a gentle sideways pass, Endo stated, "I had decided to take a shot as soon as I received the pass. The ball flew to a good spot," and he shook the goal net with a precise left-footed shot.
Amidst the fallen green uniforms on the pitch, the blue and red supporters erupted in joy, bouncing back from adversity. At the center was the number 22, who had just decided to make a full transfer.
On the way back to the pitch, I looked back at the goal stand while gripping the emblem on my left chest with my right hand. There was a strong awareness of the results and his own sense of respect embedded in that gesture.
"I was really frustrated. I felt that I couldn't go home after losing 0-2, and I wanted to show that I made a complete transfer to Tokyo and that I could demonstrate my worth in such an important match. I also wanted to convey my feelings of 'thank you for your support' once again. The fact that we played with all our might as a team is everything, and it was good that we were able to catch up because of that. Personally, I think I was able to fulfill my duties and responsibilities as a player in the match against Verdy."
Finally, I have officially become a member of the "Blue and Red," but of course, I cannot peak here. The true value of experience in winning and competitiveness will be demonstrated from this point onward.
"I want to work hard to be truly recognized. Top players can continue to perform well. I want to train every day to maintain this."
Two goals scored out of sheer determination in an overwhelmingly disadvantageous situation. Unfortunately, we could not achieve victory, but the point earned by the 'team,' including fans and supporters coming together, will undoubtedly be remembered. The resolve and feelings held by the key player may also become a story that is passed down.
Match Preview
At the Japan National Stadium, Urawa Reds defeated Kashima Antlers in succession, and Verdy, who faced them in J1 for the first time in 16 seasons, overcame a numerical disadvantage to equalize from a 2-goal deficit. Furthermore, in the YBC Levain Cup 2nd Round, they defeated Y.S.C.C. Yokohama 4-0, maintaining an unbeaten streak in official matches for four games and gaining momentum.
In the absence of Kuryu MATSUKI, Ryotaro ARAKI, and Taishi Brandon NOZAWA, who are participating in the U-23 Japan national team, Riki HARAKAWA and Keita ENDO have been improving their form, demonstrating strength that makes the absence of key players feel negligible. They are getting closer to the ideal vision of "playing our football no matter who is on the field" as advocated by coach Peter Cramofsky.
One player to watch is Kashif BANGNAGANDE, who was not called up to the U-23 Japan national team. He faces his own growth with a humble attitude, saying, "I will just give my all in the place I am in," and has made his presence felt in the league with 1 goal and 2 assists so far. This season, he has begun to express his awareness as a key player, stating, "I want to become the center of the team."
This match welcomes FC Machida Zelvia to Ajinomoto. Despite being newcomers to the J1 League, they are currently in 3rd place and in good form. How much can Tokyo showcase the results they have built up? This match should serve as a touchstone for advancing to the top ranks.
This matchday program is here
[Interview with Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI]
Q: I believe that the goal set by Coach Klamovski, which is to have a team where anyone can participate, is gradually being realized.
A, in Wednesday's match against Y.S.C.C. Yokohama, the players showed good performance on the pitch, and we saw positive signs as we continue to build. What is important is that whoever plays demonstrates a strong performance in the match and gives their all. From here, we want to continue fostering the players' mentality so it grows further. It is crucial to find our own value and move forward. As a club, we want to take steady steps toward the next chapter.
Q: FC Machida Zelvia may confront the opposing team with play that diminishes their strengths.
<div>A, we have an important match this weekend as well. We have been able to steadily build good training every day. I always respect the clubs we compete against. What is important is to prepare the best for the match, no matter the opponent. Extending our own time of possession, controlling the game, and taking the initiative will lead to better team performance. We expect it to be a tough match. We will focus on our way of playing and give it our all.
Isn't it true that winning against a tough opponent like Machida is essential to move on to the "next page"?
A, it is important for the team to steadily progress through the process for growth. Regardless of the opponent or style, we do not make any major changes. The challenges and demands differ for each match, but by focusing on the team's rules and style of play, I believe we can defeat any opponent.
[Player Interview]
<Kashif BANGNAGANDE>
Q: Including the National's two consecutive wins, we have not lost in four official matches.
A, including the match against Y.S.C.C. Yokohama on Wednesday, I believe the reason for our good form is that we have been stronger than our opponents in one-on-one situations and running ability. It may be a simple thing, but because the quality of each player has improved at the basic level, we feel that we can express our style of football more effectively. In the match against Verdy, the team started off solidly, and although we had to play with 10 men from the middle of the first half, the players on the pitch were able to return to the fundamentals of football and play well. I think we outperformed the opponents in terms of work rate and number of sprints, and the players who came on later made an impact, showing that the team was able to demonstrate a good form through our play.
Q: Three players have left the club for the U-23 Japan national team activities. What factors have contributed to the team maintaining an unbeaten record?
A, I think it is the atmosphere and intensity of the practice. Each player is able to express a good sense of tension and intensity close to actual matches, which naturally raises the quality of practice. No player is guaranteed a starting position, and the quality of practice is directly reflected in the games. In the April 3 match against Urawa Reds, many young players were in the starting lineup, and we were able to secure a solid victory. Veteran players like Yuto NAGATOMO and Masato MORISHIGE also help create an environment where young players can play intensely from practice, which is one of the factors.
Q. It seems that with the support of that atmosphere, player Yoshifumi is also increasing his involvement in scoring plays.
A has a strong desire to contribute to the team with visible numbers such as goals and assists. It was difficult to achieve results in the first few matches of the season, but I believed in what I have been building up and made sure to play with consistency from practice. Compared to last season, I feel that I am getting involved with the ball more often in advanced positions, and I review each match with the coaching staff. This season, my main goal is to increase the number of plays that lead to goals.
Q: Compared to previous seasons, the frequency of attacking participation and offensive positioning is outstanding.
A, I often form a vertical partnership with Keita ENDO and Kota TAWARATSUMIDA, both of whom are high-quality players. Their playing styles are completely different, but I focus on understanding their movements while participating in attacks and positioning myself. On the pitch, Takahiro KO especially supports my movements in various ways. He gives me detailed advice on where to receive the ball, where to move, and sometimes that it’s better to stop and receive the ball, all essential for building up the attack. I am able to organize and absorb the opinions of players, coaches, and the manager, and I feel that my own hesitation in play is gradually disappearing.
Q: This match is against FC Machida Zelvia. A matchup with Junya SUZUKI is also expected.
A, Machida is a team that suppresses the opponent's strengths while fully showcasing their own strong points. I feel strength and high quality in their hard work and foundational aspects. First and foremost, it is absolutely essential to outperform the opponent in these areas; if we fall behind here, no play or tactic will work. Not losing in the intensity of ball contests and hard work is a crucial point. I am also looking forward to the matchup with Suzuki. His kicking accuracy is high, and when he was with Tokyo, he taught me tips and points. Even among domestic fullbacks, his kicking accuracy is top-class in the J.League. Suzuki's kicks and long throws are undoubtedly Machida's weapons, and they are opponents we absolutely do not want to lose to. I want to successfully attack the flanks through combinations with my teammates.
<Keita ENDO>
Q: How do you feel about scoring in consecutive official matches?
A, it is a good thing to be able to accumulate goals in any form. We want to build a strong team where anyone who plays can deliver results on the pitch. We need players who can score goals when the team is struggling. I believe that nothing is better than a goal, no matter how good the play is.
Q: You mentioned before that "it is important to swing your legs." What are your thoughts on that?
A, I am currently able to handle the ball with a good feeling and can play calmly in front of the goal. I hope to continue expressing myself on the pitch in this week's match against FC Machida Zelvia.
Q: This match is against Machida, who are in 3rd place. Considering Machida's characteristics, what kind of match do you expect it to be?
If we aim to win the league, this is an opponent we absolutely must beat. Although it is not a six-point game, it is a match of that level of importance. I believe it will be such an important game that the players on the pitch must face it with determination. Currently, the fact that Machida is accumulating points means they are a team that thoroughly insists on fighting to win. Winning is everything. I truly think Machida is a strong team, and they will choose plays that Tokyo dislikes. Duels and battles for the ball will be crucial, and first of all, we must not lose in those situations. We also want to play in ways that both we and the opponent dislike and exploit their weak points.
<Kei KOIZUMI>
Q: I believe the team has been able to embody a tenacity that does not allow us to lose in recent official matches.
A, last season, there were many matches where we conceded the first goal and lost control of the game. This season, like in Sec. 6 against Urawa Reds where we made a comeback, and like in the match against Verdy where we caught up, we have developed resilience. Although only 8 league matches have been completed, our team is tied for first in total goals scored, and we want to build confidence in our offense. On the other hand, we have conceded many goals, so we want to make solid improvements in that area.
Q: Please tell us the factors that have contributed to the growth of the mentality to catch up and turn the game around, despite not having significantly changed the members since last season.
A, there hasn't been any major change between the team or players, but compared to last season, we are consciously ensuring that the team maintains possession of the ball for a solid amount of time. I believe one of the factors is that both the team and the players share this common awareness.
Q, it seems that Kei KOIZUMI himself has increased his participation in attacks and the number of times he builds up play compared to last season.
A, this season I have become more conscious not only of defensive movements and build-up play but also of visibly contributing to goals and assists. When a defensive midfielder gets involved in the attack and contributes with goals and assists, the team's ranking improves, and the offense gains more depth. Individual growth is essential for the team to become stronger, and I want to always play with a challenging attitude.
