1/15 Friendly Match vs Nagoya Grampus
On the 4th day of the Okinawa Itoman camp, a practice match (three 30-minute periods) was held against Nagoya Grampus at Nishizaki Athletics Stadium, resulting in a 1-2 loss. In the first period, many chances were created from short counters, but the goal net could not be shaken.
In the second 5 minutes, with the score still goalless, the side was heavily shaken, and the sliding of the back line was too slow, allowing a free shot that resulted in conceding the first goal. Near the end, an additional goal was conceded from a set piece headed in.
Chasing a two-goal deficit, just 2 minutes into the third period, the ball was stolen deep in the opponent's territory, and Kio TANAKA, who was promoted to the top team this season, scored a goal to ignite the counterattack. After that, we launched a fierce offensive, but the match ended with the final whistle as the opposing goalkeeper made excellent saves. The first external match of this season ended with a 1-2 result.
Also, on this day, there was a joyful reunion. Former players Nagai, Tokumoto, and Uchida, who once fought wearing blue and red, shared smiles and laughter with players and staff, rekindling old friendships.
Post-Match Player Comments
<Kio TANAKA>
Q: This was your first official match as a professional.
A. I knew from my position and playing time that I would have limited time on the field, so I thought the only thing expected of me during the time I played was to score. In that context, I think it was good that I was able to score.
Q: You appeared calm during the scoring moment.
A, I was consciously trying to keep moving into the penalty area. I think that led to a good scoring opportunity. I want to be more aware of that during practice, and looking back, I also think that decision (calmly trapping the ball before shooting) was good.
Q: Please tell us your aspirations for the remainder of the camp.
A, I myself am aiming to play in the league opening match, so during camp practice and even off the pitch, I want to talk with my teammates and deepen our bonds. I believe that will lead to better combinations during the game. I'm sure that these efforts will ultimately lead to goals, so I want to keep doing it.
<Fuki YAMADA>
Q: First, please reflect on your first external match.
A, there were tactics that were improvised on the spot, and we hadn't practiced set plays at all, so I think there were difficulties, but personally, I was able to simply enjoy the match after a long time.
Q. Were there any challenges left in the build-up phase?
A, since this was also my first match with this team, there were parts where I was confused by the differences from the way my previous teams played. I like touching the ball, so I really enjoy this style of soccer where various players handle the ball and move toward the goal. From now on, I want to steadily align my image with my teammates. Although there were moments that didn’t quite match up since it was the first game, I think it’s better to take it positively rather than negatively.
Q, There was also a scene where a chance was created from a short counter.
A, there were chances, and the timing and coordination like that are gradually coming together, so it was just a matter of me finishing it off. I believe that as I continue doing it, it will become ingrained in my body as one of my strengths, so I don't think it's a problem. In today's match, I think it was good that we created many such scenes.
<Keigo HIGASHI>
Q: The first external match of this season unfortunately ended with a 1-2 result.
A, I am still in the stage of improving my condition, so I think it is important to be able to move more. Today, I stood on the pitch with young players, which was a very good stimulus. The role of having to lead them became a good source of energy.
Q: The coordinated press also led to a goal.
A, I believe that moment also shows my strengths. I go to catch the opponent, intercept there, and quickly head towards the goal. It's something I've been doing for a long time, so it's still ingrained in my body. That moment was in front of the goal, but whether in the middle zone or over a long distance, when I break out in front of the goal, I want to focus on making high-quality plays that create chances.
Q. How do you feel about being able to assist the rookie player Kio TANAKA's success?
A, I also came from the Oita Trinita youth team, so I think I understand how it felt when we were newly promoted. It's not an easy world, so goals like that can be a turning point. In that sense, I think it was good. Once you're on the pitch, age doesn't matter, but seeing someone play with such determination was very inspiring. I stood on the same pitch with teammates who are all working hard, and I did my best not to hold them back and to hook them up (laughs).
FOCUS ON - Today's Highlight -
Today's 'FOCUS ON,' selected by the official photographer, features Kio TANAKA's left-footed shot that scored the team's first goal of the season. Calmly controlling the ball at his feet after a cross from the right side and evading the opposing defender, he powerfully struck with his left foot to shake the net. For Kio TANAKA, who has just been promoted to the top team, this was truly a signature moment.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
