Match Review
The Meiji Yasuda J1 Century Vision League has entered the second half of the season. So far, Tokyo, currently in provisional2nd place, is only one match ahead in terms of matches played compared to the top-rankedKashima Antlers, who are trailing by 3 points. To stay in the championship race and to put pressure on Kashima, Tokyo must continue to accumulate 3 points and keep winning.
This week, the away game against Yokohama F. Marinos at Nissan Stadiumwill be approached with two changes to the starting lineup from the previous match. The goalkeeper is Kim Seung-gyu, and the back four from right to left are Tomoya Muroya, Alexander SCHOLZ, Hayato Inamura, and Kento HASHIMOTO. The defensive midfielders are Kota Tokiwa and Kento HASHIMOTO, who returns after suspension last match. The attackers are Keisuke Sato on the right and Keita ENDO on the left, with Marcelo Hian and Ryunosuke SATO forming the same vertical two-forward partnership as in the previous match. Despite being April, the match was played under strong sunlight with a temperature of 24.5 degrees, kicking off at 15:03.
1st―Kane's sharp counterattack goal just before halftime
From the start, the opponent launched attacks mainly with simple long balls, resulting in a period where it was difficult to settle possession. Amid this, player Ryu Sato dropped to a deeper position to become the starting point of the attack, and from Inamura's accurate long feed, Endo attempted to break through, gradually increasing plays that seemed likely to lead to chances. In the 21st minute of the first half, from a pass by Ryu Sato, left-back Kento HASHIMOTO overlapped, then connected to Endo, creating a shooting opportunity.
Yokohama FM attacks mainly with counters and long balls.In the 22nd minute of the first half, Amano took a dribble breakthrough and fired a left-footed shot that hit the crossbar, but Tokyo showed concentrated team defense to protect their goal, and gradually Tokyo held the ball longer and pressed forward.
Tokyo, who struggled to create shooting opportunities, in the first halfat the 43rd minute, Kento HASHIMOTO took a free direct volley from the rebound of Ryu Sato's right corner kick. Although it narrowly went over the crossbar, it became their first clear chance.
And in the first halfat 45 minutes, Ryuu Sato cut the ball in his own half, then simply passed it forward to RIAN, and the whole team launched a swift attack into the opponent's territory. Here, RIAN carried the ball over a long distance with dribbling and delivered a soft final pass, allowing Kei Sato, who broke through the center, to skillfully finish with his left foot in one touch. With a powerful and precise counterattack, Tokyo shook the net and succeeded in taking the lead away from home.The first half ended as it was. Scoring the opening goal at a good time, Tokyo went into halftime leading 1-0.
2nd―Hian goaladds 1 point and wins in 90 minutes
Tokyo aggressively aimed for an additional goal from the start.With Ryuu Sato's vertical breakthrough and RIAN's powerful in-front shot, they relentlessly attacked the Yokohama FM goal.In the 9th minute of the second half, from a counterattack, Endo powerfully advanced through the center and passed to the left. Here, Ryuu Sato crossed back with his left foot, but unfortunately, it did not connect with RIAN who was running in on the far side, and they could not secure the second goal.
The second half continuesAt 14 minutes, the ball was connected from deep in their own half, and player Sato Kei made a long through pass forward on the right side. Player Muroya broke free and advanced with the ball,then when he crossed back to the opposite side, player Endo ran in and aimed with his right foot, but the shot went over the crossbar, missing a great chance.
The moment of joy finally came for Tokyo, who had created many close chances, at the 19th minute of the second half.Sei MUROYA, who dribbled through the center of the pitch, delivered a through pass to the left front. Receiving it, Lucas RIAN advanced forward and scored a spectacular goal with his left foot! The blue and red team once again secured the much-awaited additional goal from a sharp counterattack, successfully extending their lead to two points.
Tokyo, holding back on high pressing in the unexpected heat, has succeeded in finishing off with effective counters. They firmly position themselves to block the opponent's attacks, taking control by mixing counters and possession as time progresses. However, just after repelling the opponent's attack, a brief lapse occurred, and Kato scored a mid-range shot after picking up the loose ball,conceding their first goal in 4 matches.
Here, Tokyo made their first substitution. Kei KOIZUMI came on as right side back, replacing Muroya and Ryu Sato, and Teruhito NAKAGAWA was sent to one of the two forward positions.
Tokyo wants to extend their lead once again. In the second halfat the 33rd minute, they earned a direct free kick opportunity on the right side, where Kento HASHIMOTO's left-footed kick induced an own goal by the opponent, adding another point. Although there was a possibility of offside and VAR support was involved, the goal was allowed as is, making the score 3-1.
Second HalfAt the 40th minute of the second half, the second substitution was made. Endo and Rian were replaced by Leon NOZAWA and Divine OTANI. NOZAWA was positioned as the left attacker, and OTANI was brought in as the forward.At the 45th minute, the final substitution was made, replacing Kei Sato with Fuki YAMADA. The closing of the match was entrusted to him.
After 6 minutes of second-half additional time, we firmly shut down the opponent's power-play style attack and the time was up. Amidst the cheers of the blue and red family who gathered away in the "city that never sleeps", we successfully secured a victory in the full 90 minutes, and despite having played two more matches, we managed to level points with Kashima, the top team who has a match scheduled on Sunday.
Interview with Manager Rikizo MATSUHASHI
Q, Please summarize today's match.
A, considering the total 90 minutes, it was definitely a very difficult game. However, I believe that securing the 3 points in the end is something we can build on for the future. Although there will be a bit of a break, we want to prepare well and take on the next match.
Q. In the previous match, it seemed like the team struggled to maintain the attack, but in this match, you scored the opening goal on a counterattack. Has there been any change in the team?
A, we haven't specifically trained to score in this kind of way, but depending on the opponent's approach, we have prepared a bit for simple attacks behind the defense or stretching the defensive line. However, in the first half, we struggled to use build-up play, resulting in many long balls and a continued inability to win second balls. Even so, that formation is one of our strengths, so by successfully capitalizing on it, I think we were able to shake the opponent's confidence a little.
Q. How do you view the players' sense of distance and movement regarding coordination and teamwork?
AThe image you just mentioned hasn't really come out within myself yet. On the contrary, I think that is still an issue to work on. My awareness of moving forward is very high, and I also have the intention to create surprises. However, sometimes the movement becomes ambiguous—whether it's a dummy or a genuine receiving move—and when not chosen, the players behind end up disappearing. I believe true coordination only emerges when you can see positioning, width, and how the opponent defends, so I think I couldn't quite show that. But if the players feel that way, I want them to keep going.
Q. The goal came from a counterattack, was that a deliberate strategy?
A, originally many players are skilled in that style, and as seen in the previous match, it can be difficult to break through when a solid block is formed. While challenging, it is important to be able to use both approaches appropriately, and this time they did not overlook the situation. I believe that is their potential.
Q. How do you view the conceded goal scene?
A, it’s not that we could see everything clearly, but it also seemed like the players in the block slightly moved away. I think it comes down to the very fine detail of how close you can get at the moment the shot is taken. There are parts where our defense has been built up, but to improve further, it’s necessary to suppress things on an individual level. I believe we still have a lot to build on.
Q. How did you correct the points where the build-up did not go well?
A, while talking with the goalkeeper during the match and ultimately leaving the final decision to him, there were too many long balls in the first half. Because of that, even though there were points where we could have freed ourselves, we couldn't use them, and it became monotonous. I think we were able to gradually correct this in the second half. By skillfully alternating between long and short passes, we change the opponent's focus. I believe such flexibility is necessary.
Q. There were opportunities to aim for additional goals through good ball recoveries, but what are the challenges going forward?
A, as I mentioned at the beginning of the season, how many goals we can score in this formation will be the key to gaining 3 points. The final idea depends a lot on the individual, but when the opponent is flustered, we must play calmly and always aim to outsmart them. I believe this is important to increase our chances.
Player Interview
Player Kei Sato
Q, That was a wonderful goal.
A, in a tough match where the team struggled to execute what we wanted, even though we were being pressed, we had been aiming for counterattacks in practice, so when the chance came, I gave it my all and sprinted.
Q. You started as a right side midfielder, but your scoring position was like that of a forward.
A, Marcelo RYAN got into a one-on-one situation, and I thought if I could outrun the player in front of me, it would definitely create a chance. I ran recklessly and went all the way to the front of the goal.
Q. You scored goals as a forward, but I believe this is your first goal as a midfielder. Did the good feeling from scoring as a forward help you?
A, I think my scoring sense started from those two goals (in the away match against FC Machida Zelvia). It's the feeling of knowing where to go to score a goal. I'm glad I was able to score after a long time.
Q. Wasn't it good that you ran in a course underwrapping the inside, rather than crossing over?
A, Lucas RIAN's dribble course was on the side, and Keita ENDO was also running from the far outside. Because there was an opponent player drawn to Endo, the inside course was wide open, and seeing that, even if it wasn't used, I ran thinking, "I hope RIAN chooses me." At that moment, our eyes met, and I felt, "The pass is coming." While at top speed, my trap slipped, and at first I tried to shoot with my right foot, but I successfully switched to my left foot and slid it in.
Q. The goal just before the end of the first half seemed to change the flow of the game.
A, I think that goal was quite significant. Until then, we were being pushed back by the opponents and it was pretty tough. We also struggled to keep possession of the ball, and the weather was hot... Even in those harsh conditions, being able to score is a part where we have grown.
Q. I think you were able to successfully break through behind Yokohama F.Marinos' high line with your passes.
A, the first half was really tough, and I barely remember any goals being scored (laughs). The first half really didn’t go well. Even so, we stayed calm and defended with our bodies, which paid off, and I think the goal was the result of everyone defending together.
Q: Because you were able to make good adjustments at halftime, were you able to exploit the space behind the opponent?
A, this is the result of that correction. Also, because there was a goal in the first half, I think everyone felt much more mentally at ease.
Q. In the second half, the whole team seemed to be playing very energetically.
A, unlike the first half, the positioning and transitions were quick, leading to a completely different development. However, I wish we had played like that from the first half. This was the first match of the season in the heat, and it's understandable that we weren't fully accustomed to it. Winning such a difficult match shows how much we've grown.
Q, We have caught up with the top-ranked Kashima Antlers in points.
A, I think pressure is being applied.
Marcelo RYAN
Q, please review today's victory.
A, in the first half, there were parts where we struggled to win the ball, press effectively, and build up play. It was not a good flow, but even so, we were able to score. At halftime, the coach gave us precise instructions, and I think we were able to reorganize in the second half. We found our rhythm, scored additional goals, and were able to secure a good victory.
Q, you had a performance with 1 goal and 1 assist. Please review the goal scene.
AFor the first goal, Ryunosuke SATO applied pressure and stole the ball, which then came to me. I carried it forward, and finally, Keito SATO scored. I think it was a very well-executed goal from a good situation. In my goal scene, Sei MUROYA gave me a wonderful pass, and I skillfully moved to the left to control the ball, allowing me to finish with good timing and a good feel. I am very happy about my goal, but above all, I think the most important thing is that we won.
Q, today was a match where the counterattack worked well. Wasn't it a development that also brought out player Hian's strengths?
A, as our team style, we also focus on attacking quickly after taking the ball. I think it was good that we were able to finish well in that aspect today. We had several chances, so it would have been even better if we could have scored in those moments as well. We want to keep working towards the next match.
Q. How is your combination with Ryunosuke SATO?
A, I think our combination has improved compared to last time, and I feel very positive about it. Since our playing styles are different, we complement each other while playing. I believe that with more practice, we can build an even better relationship.
Q. What will be important going forward in chasing the top-ranked Kashima Antlers?
A, rather than focusing on the opponent, I think we just need to win each match one by one to get there. There will be a bit of time before the next game, so first we want to rest well and then prioritize winning again for the important upcoming match.
Q: Although it was an away game, many fans and supporters gathered. Please give us a message.
A, even today, despite being an away game, many fans and supporters cheered us on. It gives us strength, and we thank you for fighting alongside us. Please continue to fight with us in the upcoming matches as well.
Kento HASHIMOTO
Q,Regarding the team'sthird goal, which was caused by an own goal, what was your intention when you took the free kick?
A, We had researched beforehand that the opponent's defensive line was high, so I thought that if I could drop the ball in front of the goalkeeper, something might happen, and that's why I took the kick.
Q,So, it went as planned.
A, in the end, yes. Ideally, I would have liked to pass to a teammate.Even so, I'm glad it led to a goal.
Q. How did you feel the moment you scored a goal?
A.The first half was tough, and since Tokyo was said to be unable to score from set pieces until last season, I was very happy that a goal was created from the set piece I took.
Q. How do you feel about earning 3 points in an important match for the team?.
A. I think it’s significant that we were able to win within 90 minutes. Although the match content wasn’t great today, being able to secure the win was very important.
Q. It was said that the first half was a difficult match, but specifically, what aspects made it difficult?
A. I think we were unable to establish a rhythm in our attack. The opponent marked our players closely, raised their defensive line, and their forwards applied pressure, implementing these countermeasures. Because we couldn't progress well from our build-up against their defense aimed at not letting us keep the ball, it felt like they held possession for a long time.
Q. I think the momentum gradually shifted to our side, but was there any part where you changed your approach yourselves?
A. At halftime, we talked about the need to control the game more, so we consciously adjusted and refined the overall positioning. Also, simply put,I think the opponent couldn’t maintain this high press for the full 90 minutes in this heat, and their intensity dropped.
Q. Was Tokyo unable to apply a high press,or did they want to but couldn't? Which is it?
A.It depends on the situation, but we do want to apply it. However, football is not always like that. The fact that we were able to score two goals on the counterattack from a mid-press is a strength of this team. There are players who can outperform in every phase without being fixated on possession, and we have the quality to finish chances. I think it was very good to show that side of us.
Q. Considering that you scored at a good time and were able to pull away from the opponent, can this be called a good match?
A. No, I think there were more issues to work on today. Coach Matsuhashi also mentioned that how many goals we can score from quick transitions after regaining possession will be important this season, and actually being able to score two goals from such plays today was significant. However, ideally, we want to maintain possession more ourselves, deliberately advance, and press in the opponent's territory. With that in mind, I don't feel we can say the content was good today.
Q,At this point,we have played two more matches and have caught up to the top-ranked Kashima Antlers in points..
A, since the number of matches played is different, there is nothing particular to say. We are aiming for the championship and are only thinking about winning the next match within 90 minutes. Therefore, rather than looking ahead, we want to focus on winning the next match within 90 minutes again.
