Q: How do you feel after reflecting on the entire opening match?
A, I think everyone had the impression that the start was a bit chaotic, but for me, it was within expectations. Honestly, there is no part that requires reflection in that regard. After the period when things didn't go well, we gradually managed to play our style of football, and we were able to connect the first half to the second half, so I don't think there was anything to be pessimistic about in the overall match.
Q: Did you feel that it was expected to struggle somewhat in the first 15 minutes and that you had to endure it?
A, at first I absolutely thought it wouldn't go well. From experience, when trying a new style of soccer, it's normal for the first match and the initial period to not go smoothly. Since we are doing something new this season, I think it's natural that it doesn't go well.
Q: In communicating within the team, which was the point of correction, offense or defense?
A, I was mostly involved in defense. Since the defense wasn't going very well, I was consciously working on improving that area.
Q: It seemed that the rhythm improved during the time spent circulating the ball at the final line. Did you feel that it went smoothly there?
A, when it comes to the tempo and speed we aim for... can we say we managed to create the rhythm...? The quality we originally want to achieve is much higher, but if I were to judge at this point, I think we were able to do it smoothly.
Q: I believe you have been gaining experience playing as a full-back in practice matches, but did you feel a sense of confidence that you can perform well?
Since the opponent was Kawasaki Frontale, there are still areas where I need to improve, but I think there are some things I need to confirm within myself a little more. During the match, there were sudden situations where I was called to play as a side back due to accidents, but I believe this was the first time I was assigned as a side back from the start and faced the match in that position. I felt that things didn’t go well and that I placed some defensive burden on those around me. I hope to continue practicing and growing from here.
Q: How do you feel about the attacking part?
Unlike defense, I believe that if you can't attack, there is no point in being on the pitch, so I think you have to do it.
Q: I believe we have a good feeling moving forward, but we want to express our football while also achieving results.
A, as a fundamental idea, I believe the soccer style Tokyo chose was to achieve results. Although the results did not come, it was going well, so that was acceptable, but I think that ended with this (opening match). From now on, it is necessary not only to play good soccer but also to focus on winning. Even if we play good soccer, losing is meaningless, so first and foremost, we must prioritize winning while not forgetting to express our own style for that purpose.
