Finally, on April 29 (Friday, holiday), Tokyo will compete in the first J-League match at the Japan National Stadium.
Before the renovation of the National Stadium, many official matches were held since the first year of joining the J-League. There were memorable super plays and impactful events. Since the long-awaited title was won, Tokyo has won all titles at the National Stadium, symbolizing the deep connection between Tokyo and the National Stadium.
Our National.
This is TOKYO.
Before taking a new step at National, let's look back at the footprints and memories left at National along with photos from that time.
2003 Encounter with the Galactic Army
【Match Information】
SUNTORY DREAM MATCH
FC Tokyo 0-3 Real Madrid
After the 2002 World Cup, it's Real Madrid next──.
As observed in the soccer industry, "El Blanco (Spanish for 'white', a nickname for Real Madrid)" had become a major boom in Japan. While the popularity among core fans has risen due to the frequent broadcasting of overseas soccer on satellite television, the fact that David Beckham gained national popularity by the previous year's World Cup has likely contributed to the boom among the general public as well.
In such a match against a globally popular club, FC Tokyo has secured tickets for SOCIO members. Annual ticket holders have obtained tickets that are certainly difficult to acquire and rushed to our home, the Japan National Stadium.
Despite the atmosphere in the stadium and the media coverage being biased towards the other side, and unfortunately in rainy weather, the blue and red warriors on the pitch were invigorated.
The starting lineup is Yoichi DOI, Akira KAJI, Teruyuki MONIWA, Ryuji FUJIYAMA, Jo KANAZAWA, Fumitake MIURA, Masashi MIYAZAWA, Mitsuhiro TODA, Kelly, Yuta BABA, Yoshiro ABE.
On the other hand, Real Madrid had Ronaldo, Raul, Figo, and Casillas starting on the bench, while Zidane was absent. However, Beckham, Makelele, and Roberto CESAR started, presenting a lineup worthy of the Galacticos as they approached the match.
In the first half, Tokyo fought hard in a heavy atmosphere. In the 10th minute of the first half, Kelly's looping shot had a decisive scent, but it did not go on target. The inability to score during the dominant period had repercussions, and the stable Real Madrid took control after switching from one holding midfielder to two.
Then, in the 37th minute of the first half, Beckham, who was likely the main attraction for fans and supporters other than Tokyo, scored a direct free kick, sealing the deal. After that, we allowed two more goals, resulting in a frustrating defeat.
With the AFC Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup established as regional world club championship tournaments and the current congested schedule, opportunities to encounter such pre-season matches in Asia by big European clubs have almost disappeared. However, the significance of experiencing the pinnacle of the world, even for just a moment, during that time was substantial.
It was a special night that can be said to be the origin of Tokyo, aiming for higher heights towards Asia and the world.
Text by Katsu Goto (Freelance Writer)
