In the previous match, Tokyo achieved victory against Gamba Osaka in front of a crowd of over 40,000 at the Japan National Stadium. During a match that remained 0-0, coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA emphasized that the team continues to grow constantly.
In the match against Gamba Osaka, there was a long period of ball possession, pushing the opponent back, and a quick recovery of the ball after losing it, achieving a strong attack. Additionally, they limited opportunities for decisive balls in front of the goal and established a tight defensive net that did not allow opposing players to enter the penalty area, finishing the match with four consecutive clean sheets.
Following the seven consecutive matches in April, we are now entering a series of matches during the Golden Week, and the players' fatigue is certainly not light. Additionally, some players are getting injured and leaving the team, creating a very challenging situation for team composition. At the beginning of the season, we faced difficult circumstances due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, but coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA managed to navigate through it by placing players in suitable positions. It will be interesting to see how he integrates the limited playing time of the young players who thrived in the Levain Cup.
The use of center-back players is a point to watch. Masato MORISHIGE is out due to injury, and towards the end of the match against Gamba Osaka, Henrique TREVISAN was also carried off on a stretcher. Will Henrique be fit in time, or will another player seize the opportunity to play? Building up from the defensive line is the first step in attack. In particular, the combination of long and short passes from the center-backs is becoming a key element of Tokyo's new style. The selection and performance of these players are likely to influence the outcome of the matches.
On the other hand, in the match against Fukuoka, the expectations for the center backs will be high in terms of defense. Fukuoka has large forwards such as Juanma DELGADO and Lukian. Depending on the combination with players who have different characteristics like Yuya YAMAGISHI and Daiki WATARI, it may not be easy to handle.
While countering the strength, speed, and skill of the opponent's attacking line, when we regain possession, we must also think about how to build our attack. Five days after the match against Fukuoka, we will return home to Ajinomoto Stadium. To continue our winning streak and accumulate points before returning home, we cannot take our eyes off the performance of the center backs.
