Match Review
In the previous match, Tokyo suffered its first consecutive losses of the season after narrowly losing to Kashiwa Reysol. Furthermore, in the midweek Emperor's Cup 3rd Round, they were defeated by J2 League's JEF United Chiba after extra time, putting them in a difficult situation with three consecutive official match losses.
The match at the Japan National Stadium, in such a situation, is a perfect opportunity to break the current flow. A game at this sacred place, where we have remained unbeaten so far, is expected to be a must-win. There is only one change in the starting lineup from the match against Kashiwa. Keita ENDO has made it back to the starting members for the first time in about three months, replacing Kota TAWARATSUMIDA, while Matsuki, who will leave the club after this match, is waiting for his chance from the bench.
1st HALF - Starter Keita meets expectations with a goal
Just like the match against Kashiwa Reysol a week ago, where we took the lead in the second minute, the start of the game was fantastic. Yasushi ENDO, who played as a left winger, became the starting point for the attack, creating the first chance in the third minute of the first half. After winning the ball from a press back by Diego OLIVEIRA, ENDO carried it and delivered a cross towards the back. Kosuke SHIRAI, the right back who jumped in, swung his right foot, but it was blocked by a defender.
Nevertheless, Tokyo boldly attacked and scored the opening goal in the 6th minute of the first half. Connecting passes from their own half and breaking down the left side, Endo reacted to a through pass from Kei KOIZUMI. Without hesitation, he carried the ball towards the goal, regained control as he entered the area, created a shot angle, and unleashed a powerful strike. The fierce shot deflected off the opposing goalkeeper's hands and shook the goal net.
Tokyo took control with an early opening goal, but as time passed, the flow of the game settled down. While building up play from the two center backs, Yasuki KIMOTO and Teppei OKA, they created opportunities to invade the opponent's territory, but struggled to get shots off. Conversely, even when Niigata held the ball, they did not allow any goals in the final moments, maintaining a clean sheet.
Around the 30-minute mark of the first half, a missed pass in our own territory led to a dangerous situation, but Kimoto threw himself to block Taniguchi's shot. From the resulting loose ball, we transitioned to a counterattack, creating a chance for the third time through Endo's dribbling breakthrough, but the cross did not reach Diego TABA, and we could not add another goal.
2nd HALF—The long-awaited Leon goal secures an unbeaten record at the National Stadium.
In contrast to the first half, in the second half, Niigata took control with sharp starts. In the 5th minute of the second half, they faced a crisis. Their right side was breached, allowing Taniguchi to take a shot in the area, but it went wide, and they escaped danger. However, immediately after that, they were threatened again. A feed from Thomas DENG turned the situation around, and a one-touch pass from Taniguchi allowed Nagakura to break free. However, Shuhei TOKUMOTO, who had returned desperately, closed in and prevented the shot.
In the final moments, Tokyo showed concentrated defense to maintain their lead, and in the 16th minute of the second half, Matsuki was brought on. Then, just two minutes later, there was an immediate opportunity. They aimed for a direct free kick, but it went straight to the goalkeeper.
Even so, Matsuki's entry onto the pitch clearly changed the flow of the game. In the 28th minute of the second half, Matsuki collected a loose ball in midfield and spread it to the left side. He received a return pass from Leon NOZAWA and aimed with his favored left foot, showing his eagerness to score.
Then, in the 32nd minute of the second half, Tokyo finally scored an additional goal. Exploiting the right side, Kei KOIZUMI burst into space and delivered a speedy cross to a teammate making a run up the opposite side. Nozawa, who had made a run into the goal area from the far side, calmly shook the net, scoring his first goal in the J1 League and his first professional goal in Tokyo.
Tokyo held on through the 6 minutes of added time displayed, achieving their first victory in 3 league matches and stopping a 2-match losing streak. At the moment of the final whistle, the chant for Matsuki echoed from behind the goal.
MATCH DETAILS
<FC Tokyo>
GK Taishi Brandon NOZAWA
DF Kosuke SHIRAI/Yasuki KIMOTO (41st min: Masato MORISHIGE)/Teppei OKA/Shuhei TOKUMOTO
MF Hiroshi TAKAU/Yoshiki KOIZUMI/Teruhito NAKAGAWA (41st min: Chikara HARAKAWA)
FW Diego Oliveira (16th min: Kuryu MATSUKI)/Keita ENDO (26th min: Leon NOZAWA)/Soma ANZAI (41st min: Yuto NAGATOMO)
SUBS
GK Go HATANO
FW Jája Silva
GOAL
6th minute of the first half: Keita ENDO / 33rd minute of the second half: Leon NOZAWA
<Albirex Niigata>
STARTING Ⅺ
GK Koto ABE
DF Soya FUJIWARA/Ryo ENDO/Thomas DEN/Yuto HORIGOME
MF Hiroki AKIYAMA/Yuzuru SHIMADA (38th minute: Eiji MIYAMOTO)/Yota KOMI/Kaito TANIGUCHI (31st minute: Yuji ONO)
FW Motoki HASEGAWA (31st minute: Eitaro MATSUDA)/Motoki NAGAKURA (38th minute: Yoshiaki TAKAGI)
SUBS
GK Daisuke YOSHIMITSU
DF Takumi HASEGAWA/Kazuhiko CHIBA
GOAL
―
[Peter CKLAMOVSKI Coach Interview]
Q, please summarize today's match.
A, I think it was a good 3 points. The players approached with a very good attitude and made desperate efforts. Together with the many fans and supporters who came to the Japan National Stadium, we fought together to send off Kuryu MATSUKI and earned these 3 points. Regarding the first half, I think there were moments when we produced good plays when we had the ball in attack, but I believe we could have used the spaces available to us a little better. However, within that, we were able to move well toward the goal. We showed good movement and good connections while heading toward the goal, which led to a goal, but I think it would have been better if we had used the spaces available to us a bit more to attack. In the second half, we had to work hard. I think it would have been good if there had been a period when we could control the game a little more. Nevertheless, even within that, it was a positive point that we were able to score the second goal in the way we designed and finish it off.
I truly want to express my deep gratitude to the fans and supporters who came here today. I believe they have become something special for both the players and Matsuki, and I want to deliver these 3 points to them.
Q: Please tell us the reason why Ryotaro ARAKI, who has been selected for the Japan national team for the Paris Olympics, was not included in the squad.
There were three matches in seven days in Group A. We also had a midweek match, and today was our third consecutive match. He has played many games this season and has delivered great performances for us. I believe he was selected for the Japan national team because he played with pride that the club can be proud of. Our decision for today's match was to use as many fresh players as possible. Araki has shown excellent performance this season, and we are looking forward to him playing in the Olympics. Of course, the same goes for Taishi Brandon NOZAWA. Araki was a bit tired, so we decided to rest him today and play with fresh players.
Q: Today's match was held in front of a large crowd of 57,885 people. How was the content of the football played?
A, when we had the ball, we were able to make dangerous plays against the opponent. We want to become that kind of team. Also, we want to become a team that can score by exploiting the opponent's weaknesses. Regarding today's match, it would have been better if we could control the game, and if we had done that, I think we could have been more aggressive. There were parts of our movements and plays where we had good momentum, and I believe we were a threat to the opponent. And those were two good goals. I am also proud that Leon NOZAWA scored the team's second goal. He fulfilled our commitments and what we practice every day, and was able to connect that to a goal. The important thing is that we are a team that is growing. We want to continue to grow and develop our way of playing.
Q: What kind of growth has Kuryu MATSUKI experienced on and off the field in the past year and a half?
A, from the very first day I started working with Matsuki, I have had a passion to bring out the best in this player. This is the same for all other players as well. I believe his attitude, dedication, and approach are truly inspiring. Perhaps many of you were surprised that he became the captain this season. I think the quality of leadership he possesses is something special. That has also contributed to his growth as a young player. I truly believe he has delivered something very good up to this point. Of course, I believe he always has "Aoaka" in his heart, and the club FC Tokyo, as well as the entire city of Tokyo, are looking forward to his second chapter.
[Player Interview]
＜Kuryu MATSUKI＞
Q: We achieved a victory in the match immediately after the announcement of the team's departure.
<div>A, Leon NOZAWA from the same age group scored his first goal in the J1 League. I know how hard he has worked, and seeing my peers succeed makes me proud that I can go abroad. Before today's match started, Kei KOIZUMI told everyone "For Kusei," and because we were able to win, I can leave the team feeling good.
Q: You came on as a substitute, but what were you focused on when entering the match?
A, I came in when the score was 1-0, and I was thinking of extending the lead. Defensively, we had been setting up a block since the first half, so I adapted to that and tried to give my best during the counterattacks. I will never forget this victory for the rest of my life.
Q: How do you reflect on what you have gained from being involved with the Tokyo club for about three seasons, including participating in practices?
A, I believe I would not have been able to play in matches if it weren't for Tokyo. Albert PUIG ORTONEDA, the former head coach, consistently started me from the opening game, and Peter CKLAMOVSKI appointed me as captain. I had truly valuable experiences in my career as a soccer player, and I believe these experiences will definitely be useful in the next stage. I want to move forward with my feet firmly on the ground.
Q: When speaking in front of fans and supporters, you mentioned wanting to become a player who leaves a mark in the club's history.
A, from now on it will be a battle with myself, and I want to perform overseas in a way that I am recognized as the best player in Tokyo.
Q: What have you gained in terms of play from your time in Tokyo and from serving as captain?
A, I think I have gradually developed the ability to stay calm and control the game. It was sometimes very difficult to lead as captain during both good and bad times. It wasn't just me; with the support of seniors and juniors, I was able to serve as captain up to this point, and I am truly grateful to Masato MORISHIGE and Koizumi.
Q: Will being able to depart with many fans and supporters seeing you off be a source of strength in the future?
Over 57,000 fans and supporters, including those of Albirex Niigata, gathered, and I could see them while playing. I want to spread my wings carrying everyone's expectations.
<Leon NOZAWA>
Q, this was your first goal in Tokyo. Please review the scoring scene.
Ah, that goal was part of the team's plan, where the player on the opposite side makes a run, and I made eye contact with Kei KOIZUMI, so I was sure the ball would come. There have been similar chances before that I couldn't finish, so I felt I had to make sure to score this time. After that, it was more about determination than technique. Scenes where I missed before crossed my mind, but I have practiced a lot since then, and this goal was the result of that effort. Many people have supported us, and that's why I was there, the ball came to me, and I was able to score. I want to thank the Tokyo players, staff, and most of all, the fans and supporters who have kept cheering us on until now.
Q: I think you have spent a lot of difficult times until today.
Since turning professional, I have truly gone through a tough season. Even so, I believe this goal was possible because many people kept supporting me all along. For me, today's match became a significant turning point for growth, so I want to view it positively. However, I feel that today I finally stood at the starting line, so I want to keep delivering results to contribute to victory in the next match as well.
Q: Please share your enthusiasm for the upcoming match against Kashima Antlers.
A, even today, and also during the away 2024 J.League YBC Levain Cup matches, you were singing my chant, and your cheers have been a tremendous source of strength for me, so I want to express my gratitude. I was finally able to respond to those cheers with results. It is thanks to all the fans and supporters who have continuously encouraged me up to this point, and I want to give back even more from now on.
<Keita ENDO>
Q, please review the scoring scene.
A, it was at my preferred angle. I believe what is expected of me in that situation is to make plays that lead to goals, such as shots or crosses, and I’m glad I was able to successfully score a good shot there.
Q: It has been a difficult period since the injury.
A, even if I am not able to play in perfect condition, I have been allowed to adjust from a short amount of time and can play without worrying. I am glad that we were able to change the bad streak of consecutive losses in the league matches.
Q: You have been going through a difficult period with three consecutive losses. What preparations did you make for today's match?
The matches against Avispa Fukuoka, Kashiwa Reysol, and JEF United Chiba were tough, but the cheers from the fans and supporters were the best support. Even when sitting on the bench, I talked with other players. Among all this, the entire team, including ourselves and the staff, was unable to respond with results. Today, I believe everyone approached the match with the feeling of fighting for the fans and supporters who came to cheer for us despite our poor performance and loss to Chiba.
Q: I think next week's match against Kashima Antlers will be important for improving our ranking. Today, many people came to the game, setting a new record for the highest home attendance in the club's history. Please share a message for those fans and supporters.
A, since there are no midweek matches, we want to prepare thoroughly and face the game. It is not something to be taken for granted that people come to watch our matches even when the results are not going our way, and this is not because it is Japan National Stadium or Ajinomoto Stadium, but because we have to play football for the fans and supporters who cheer for us. We want to play football feeling the joy of being able to play, for those who have even a little expectation of us.
<Taishi Brandon NOZAWA>
Q: It has been a while since the last clean sheet. How do you feel about the overall match?
A, it was important to definitely win, so I’m glad we were able to accumulate points. I believe we are a team that can keep winning, but in recent matches, we made the games difficult for ourselves. Without being too pessimistic about the three consecutive losses, we focused solely on getting results. In that sense, I’m really glad we were able to secure a definite win today.
Q: You have been conceding goals, but what aspects did you focus on for today's match?
A, on a personal level, I still had many things I needed to learn and felt that I was lacking in study. Maintaining an attitude of continuous learning is important, but constantly making mistakes and learning from conceded goals causes trouble for the team, and I felt that as a goalkeeper, I needed to quickly reach a higher level. That is why I am glad we were able to achieve a victory today. As a team, I believed it was important to keep communicating with each other, respect the decisions each player makes, and continue to support one another.
Q: After this, you will leave the team to join the U-23 Japan national team. What kind of preparations are you making for the national team activities, and what results do you want to achieve and bring back?
A, Representing Japan national team, it is difficult to simply express it with the word "weight," but I want to fully understand that I am standing there and fight through it. Regardless of the result, I want to spend the tournament without any regrets like "I wish I had done this." Even after returning to Tokyo, the league matches will continue, and I have not given up on the league title at all. From here on, dropping points will make the battle more difficult, so I want to win decisively.
Q: Finally, please give a message to the fans and supporters who sent you off with loud cheers.
I really want to show plays that can encourage those who are supporting us. Of course, I feel that I must meet the expectations of those who are cheering for us, so I believe that failure is not an option. However, it is important not only to make good plays but also to consider how to rise up after a failure.I hope that I can be a reason for those who support us to feel motivated to do their best that day, even if just a little.
