Match Preview
Three days before the first match of the Levain Cup Prime Stage Quarterfinal Round, Tokyo revealed its poor record by losing to Avispa Fukuoka in the league, resulting in a total of 3 wins, 3 draws, and 8 losses. In the Levain Cup as well, before the first match, Tokyo had a record of 1 win, 3 draws, and 2 losses against Fukuoka, indicating a losing record.
In the first match held at home at Ajinomoto Stadium on the 6th, they broke that jinx and won 1-0, bringing their record in the Levain Cup to 2 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses, which is an even performance. Considering that they had not won a single match in the 8 games since Fukuoka was promoted in the 2021 season, this can be seen as a significant advancement for Tokyo.
In the first match in Tokyo, a system change was made to structure the defense line with three players, reflecting on the previous league match. This created an advantage on the sides and successfully neutralized Fukuoka's vertical pressure in both defense and attack. In defense, space was eliminated, including the wing-backs, thoroughly addressing the opponent's quick counterattacks, while in attack, the press was evaded, allowing for smooth build-up play.
Adailton's opening goal gave us the lead, but in the second half, we faced the opponent's momentum head-on. However, we recognized the importance of victory in the tournament and prioritized a realistic approach by first solidifying our defense, which yielded results. In this tournament, where the total score of two matches is contested, the outcome of the first match is expected to have a significant impact on the second match.
How will Tokyo make use of the advantage gained from their first victory? The important thing is to assess Fukuoka's approach.
This is the second match played at home for Fukuoka. If they come forward with the home advantage, Tokyo will need to effectively utilize the space behind them. On the other hand, if they aim for a solid match and try to leverage their tall foreign players for power play, they will need to crush the distribution points to the front line with high pressing and implement proactive defense to keep the opposing forwards away from the goal through control of the defensive line.
Tokyo, having broken the jinx against Fukuoka, will bring back the ticket to the Semifinal Round for the first time in three tournaments, aiming for the Levain Cup title.
[Interview with Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI]
Q: With a short preparation period, you changed your formation in the previous match against Avispa Fukuoka and achieved victory.
A, the players showed very good movement to perform as a team. It was a match with many plays worthy of victory and many good elements. It is important to evolve and improve on what was good. We controlled the game in the first half. We had the momentum, and within that, there were good movements and coordinated plays, which led to the opening goal. In the second half, I think we were able to control the game from a different perspective than in the first half. One point that needs improvement is to express the style of play from the first half in the second half as well. If we can improve on that, I believe we could have scored additional goals in the second half. There was also good team defense, and I think it was good that we were able to finish the match without conceding any goals. After the first match, we are, so to speak, at halftime. For the second match, we just have to fight to seize victory on Fukuoka's ground.
Q: I believe that the addition of formation options has increased the tactical choices.
A, it was a good challenge for us, and the players executed it well. We want to grow into a team that can do various things depending on the situation. We are taking good steps forward, but there are many points we need to improve. As a team, we want to move in the right direction while addressing these challenges. The choice we made in the recent Fukuoka match was based on what is most important and how to maximize our potential. I believe it was the right choice.
Q: Please tell us about the challenges the team faced when approaching the match with a three-back formation.
A, considering our current situation, I thought that playing with a three-back formation was the best choice. Also, taking into account the two days between matches and the players' condition. It was a decision made so that the players could perform at their best and to take control both offensively and defensively, aiming for the team to evolve. I believe it is important to continue challenging various things in order to further evolve from here.
[Player Interview]
＜Naoki KUMATA＞
Q, please tell us if you have any insights or feelings gained from the Semifinal Round match 1.
A, I started from the beginning, but I couldn't do anything individually, and I felt there are still many things I need to work on. As an issue, my own passing mistakes stood out during the attack. However, I believe it was meaningful to be able to play for nearly 90 minutes. I want to work hard to be able to participate in the upcoming matches. No matter the form, a player who can score is important as a forward, and I think it just comes down to building that up through practice. If I don't show it in practice, I believe I won't receive the final pass from my teammates during the game, so I want to focus on the results.
Q: In the last match, you were in a two-top formation with Adailton. What were you conscious of?
A, I myself have often played as one of the two forwards, so it was easier for me. Defensively, the two players up front can press the ball together, and offensively, if the two forwards coordinate well, they can complete the attack. How the two forwards engage in both defense and offense is important, and I believe it brings a different advantage compared to playing as a single forward.
Q: There were many instances of high-intensity defense, not just attacks.
A, I believe it is necessary to improve even further from here. Not only in defense, but I also want to enhance the quality of our attack as a forward. I want to increase the number of times I touch the ball in front of the goal and be mindful of showcasing my strengths.
Q: The team's away game winning percentage in Kyushu is not good. Please tell us what is necessary to break the current situation.
A, I know that we have not been able to win away games in Kyushu. Regarding that, I think it is important not just for me but for the whole team to secure a win. We will fight for the team and for victory.
<Ryoma WATANABE>
Q: In the league matches and the Levain Cup, you will face Avispa Fukuoka in three consecutive games. What do you see as the opponent's characteristics and style of play?
A, I felt that there was a mismatch in the league match on the 3rd. On the pitch, it seemed like the gap was being used effectively to receive the ball, but when I reviewed the footage later, that wasn't really the case. I sensed a misalignment in defensive positioning and an atmosphere of prioritizing defense first. If we can maintain an aggressive stance like in the match on the 6th and defend firmly to catch the opponent, I believe a good flow will naturally emerge, and our play will improve.
Q、In the first match of the Levain Cup, you came on as a substitute in the midfield position. There must have been many tasks on both the offensive and defensive sides, right?
Of course, Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI instructed us to "score additional goals," but when thinking about connecting to Sec. 2, I believed that not leaving gaps in defense was the top priority. In the previous match, I was especially focused on firmly recovering second balls. Whether I start from the beginning or come on as a substitute in Sec. 2, I want to continue this mindset.
Q: It seems that playing in the attacking midfielder or central position has further highlighted Watanabe's characteristics.
I believe that having options in 360 degrees allows me to demonstrate my strengths. I think it is a position where many positive aspects can be brought out.
Q, With the advantage of having won the first match, how do you want to proceed with the game?
Regardless of the 1-0 result in the first match, I believe the team should play offensively. If even a slight defensive mindset emerges, we risk conceding goals due to the opponent's attacks. I want to show plays where we aggressively go for goals and take shots on the first play. Personally, I am not concerned about not having won the away match against Fukuoka so far. Having won the first match, the team seems to be able to approach the second match with a good feeling. I want to cherish this good feeling and inspiration.
