4/2 (Sat) vs Yokohama F.Marinos (Away)
High Press vs Build Up
If you're looking for a preview of the match between Yokohama F.Marinos and FC Tokyo, you can't avoid mentioning 'that match'.
8-0――.
On November 6, 2021, Yokohama FM faced FC Tokyo in the J1 League Sec. 35. The stage was the same Nissan Stadium as this match. Yokohama FM showcased their attacking football and decisively defeated FC Tokyo with a record victory. Shortly after, the then-coach Kenta HASEGAWA (currently the coach of Nagoya Grampus) resigned, and this bitter memory may have been etched in the history of FC Tokyo.
On the other hand, Yokohama FM's match became a memorable best bout, surpassing the club record for most goals in a single match. Looking back at the situation at the time, they had suffered a powerless defeat to Gamba Osaka, which crushed their hopes of winning the league title for the first time in two years, and this match came just two days later. Moreover, they were in a position of 'overwhelming second place,' with a significant gap in points from the teams below them. The overwhelming victory in such adverse circumstances, where it was difficult to raise motivation, must have been etched in the hearts of the supporters who witnessed the players' intense fighting spirit.
Of course, it is not possible to describe the current situation of both parties solely based on that context.
As you know, FC Tokyo has hired coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA, who aims for positional play, and has made a major shift to a style that values possession of the ball. Even for Yokohama FM, while their ultra-offensive mindset remains unchanged, key players who supported the league championship in the 2019 season, such as Thiago Martins (currently at New York City FC) and Takahiro OHGIHARA (currently at Vissel Kobe), have sought new opportunities. With the addition of many young players, the average age has dropped by about two years compared to last season, resulting in a lineup that can be called the 'New Marinos.'
Given this background, if we simply look ahead to this match, there is a growing expectation that the styles of both teams will align and resonate with each other. In other words, regardless of the outcome, it could be said that this is a favorable matchup that can maximize the entertainment value of football.
One of the key points is Yokohama FM's high press vs FC Tokyo's build-up. Although FC Tokyo has been improving since their strong performance in the opening match against Kawasaki Frontale, they are still in the developing stage.
To narrow the focus further, Yokohama FM applies high pressure on goalkeeper Jakub SLOWIK, who serves as the starting point for the attackers during defensive situations, and how they calculate the interconnectivity of their pressing. Since there is no option to 'set up,' the extent to which they can trap the opponent becomes a barometer for measuring the ups and downs of attacking football. Paradoxically, it can also be said that FC Tokyo's sophistication in build-up play will be tested against Yokohama FM, which boasts the fastest tempo in the league.
Additionally, Yokohama FM's theme will be 'immediate recovery' after losing the ball during attacks. If they can regain possession during the transition from offense to defense, it will be Yokohama FM's pace. If they can withstand that intense counter-press, it will be FC Tokyo's flow. This will serve as one criterion for determining the battle for control.
In the past, Yokohama FM has won three consecutive matches against both teams. They scored 15 goals in those three matches, with zero goals conceded. Even though FC Tokyo's structure has changed, many players who remember that time remain, and there is no negative image. Moreover, this match is designated as a 30th anniversary commemorative game, and as a club, there is an absolute reason to win this memorial game.
In the face of the serious Yokohama FM, the currently on a three-game winning streak Albert Tokyo will be a perfect match to measure how well they can compete against last season's second-place powerhouse. In any case, the interest is unending, and there is a sense that a new classic match is about to be born.
Text by Yohei Obayashi (Ergorasso Yokohama F.Marinos correspondent)
