The second match of the three-game series against clubs participating in the AFC Champions League. In the previous match, Tokyo successfully executed short counters from high pressing against Yokohama F.Marinos, creating several decisive chances in the first half. However, they were unable to convert and fell behind early in the second half, ultimately losing without being able to equalize.
Furthermore, Kuryu MATSUKI received two yellow cards and was sent off, resulting in a suspension for this match. How will the team cover for Matsuki's absence, given that he has participated in every league match since the opening as a rookie? Considering that the busy schedule of consecutive matches has just begun, attention is focused on how coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA will select the squad.
In particular, the midfield is filled with players who have both experience and skill. Yojiro TAKAHAGI, Hirotaka MITA, and Keigo HIGASHI may not have had much playing time this season yet, but they have been making their mark in the Levain Cup and must have something to prove for this match. In the last match, Hirotaka MITA, who was brought on as a right winger in the second half, skillfully found and utilized space in the front line, creating opportunities to threaten the opponent's goal. Keigo HIGASHI also showcased his attacking sense by being involved in decisive moments multiple times during the Levain Cup match against Shonan Bellmare. There is no doubt that they will bring different attacking options to Tokyo, who wants to maintain possession and take control of the match.
The opponent, Vissel Kobe, has yet to win a league match this season. In their first match after the change of coach, they lost 1-3 to Kyoto SANGA F.C. However, looking at the players, it is clear that they possess one of the top strengths in the J-League. Although Sergi SAMPER is out long-term due to injury, Iniesta's brilliance has not faded, and he performs dangerous plays whether starting or coming off the bench.
Similar to Tokyo, there is a strong tendency to maintain ball possession, utilizing individual skills to enhance ball possession and push the opposing team back. For Tokyo, valuing the ball is a prerequisite, and even if they lose it, they want to quickly switch and regain possession, aiming to launch a short counterattack by exploiting the opponent's transition to attack.
Don't miss the showdown between coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA, player Andres INIESTA, and player Bojan, who know the style of FC Barcelona. To deepen Tokyo's style, the play of the opponent's key players can sometimes provide hints. I want to make this match an opportunity to accelerate the growth of Albert Tokyo by not wasting each of those experiences.
