1/18 Friendly Match vs Sanfrecce Hiroshima
On the 7th day of the Okinawa Itoman camp, a practice match (3 halves of 45 minutes) was held against Sanfrecce Hiroshima at Nishizaki Athletic Stadium, resulting in a 4-3 score.
The first attempt was blocked by the opposing goalkeeper's excellent save, resulting in 0-1. Furthermore, the second attempt also failed to create a finishing opportunity, ending scoreless.
In the third match, a goal was conceded just 3 minutes after the start, extending the lead to 2 points. However, it was just one minute later. Player Kizuna Kominato, who is scheduled to join from Hosei University during the 2026/27 season, ignited the counterattack with a skillful looping shot.
Furthermore, at the 11th minute, player Kominato shook the net once again. At the 30th minute, although Hiroshima temporarily pulled ahead, the momentum-driven goal scorer did not stop. At the 37th minute, he scored again to complete a hat-trick. One minute after equalizing, a trainee's stunning long-range shot pierced the upper left corner of the goal, allowing Tokyo to successfully take the lead.
Post-Match Player Comments
<Player Kizuna Kominato>
Q, please review each scoring scene.
A, for the first goal, after breaking free, there was no shooting angle, and with no choice but to quickly go for a chip shot, I think it was good that I was able to finish with high quality. For the second goal, after I made the through pass and entered the area, the ball luckily bounced to me in the end, but being in that position is also one of my strengths. I believe I have a better sense for scoring than anyone else, so I’m glad I was able to finish it properly. From there, I was determined to score the third goal, so from the moment I carried the ball into the box, I was only thinking about shooting. The finishing shape also went well, and I think all three goals were reproducible ones.
Q: I also participated in the camp for the 2025 season, and I believe these 3 goals showed the growth I have made over the course of the season.
A. Last season's camp had some moments where I couldn't quite get into good form, and throughout the season, there was the frustration of not being able to break into the competition within the team. This season, I want to show that I can perform well right from the start of the season. I aim to make an impression during the camp to move up the ranks even a little.
Q: I believe what you demonstrated in the university league last season was proven here.
A, I have played as a forward in university. Although the time given to me in today's match was short, I was able to score 2 goals during that time. Personally, I want to compete as a forward player. I aim to become an irreplaceable player as a striker.
<Leon NOZAWA>
Q, recorded an assist.
A, in the situation that led to the assist, I had the option to go by myself or to pass to the player who underwrapped on the inside. Among those options, I saw a player running behind in a position closer to the goal, so I chose that. The quality of the pass was not good, but I think the player who finished it had high quality. Although I need to improve the quality of my play more, being able to make a play directly leading to a goal is a step forward.
Q. While you were able to create good opportunities, what kind of challenges do you feel?
A, I think I still haven't been able to connect well with those around me both offensively and defensively. Receiving the ball near the sideline and taking on opponents, or running behind them, creates space in the half-lane, and I want to fulfill roles beyond what is expected of me. First, I want to leverage my strengths and create an environment where I can play more comfortably.
FOCUS ON - Today's Highlight -
The official photographer selected this shot for today's 'FOCUS ON.' The play of Kouta Tokiwa, now in his second professional season, has clearly changed. On the monitor, synchronized with the shutter sound, photos of player number 27 playing with his head held high are continuously saved. During the 2025 season, when he had limited playing opportunities, he diligently accumulated solo morning practice and double training sessions. Such relentless effort, after all, did not betray him.
"Previously, the place where I received the ball was not good, and I was flustered after receiving it. Through self-training, I was able to find a position where the ball wouldn't be taken away. By observing the opponent, I also developed a sense of where I should stand as I continued practicing."
He expressed such confidence, and his gaze naturally shifted beyond that point.
"It took a year, but I finally stepped into the ring to compete for a regular spot. I need to build on my current play and deliver results in goals and assists. From here, I want to create a reason why it absolutely has to be me."
Behind the passionate words, there was a backbone built up over the course of a year.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
