In the previous match, Tokyo achieved victory against Gamba Osaka at the Japan National Stadium, where over 40,000 spectators gathered. Despite the 0-0 draw, coach Albert Puig Ortoneda emphasized that the team is constantly growing.
In the Gamba Osaka match, they were able to hold onto the ball for a long time and push the opponent, and they were also able to quickly regain possession after losing the ball, creating a solid attack. They also limited the opportunities for decisive balls to be put in front of the goal, and set up a tight defensive net that prevented opponents from entering the penalty area, ending the game with four consecutive clean sheets.
After the 7 consecutive games in April, the team is now entering a series of games during Golden Week, and the players' fatigue is not to be taken lightly. Furthermore, there have been players who have been injured and are unable to play, causing a lot of trouble in terms of team selection. In the early stages of the season, the team faced difficulties due to the impact of the new coronavirus, but coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA managed to overcome it by utilizing the right players in the right positions. It will be interesting to see how he will integrate the limited playing time of the players, including the young players who have been performing well in the Levain Cup.
One key point to note is the use of center-back players. Masato MORISHIGE was injured and left the game, and Henrique TREVISAN was also carried off on a stretcher towards the end of the Gamba Osaka match. Will Henrique be able to make it in time, or will another player seize the opportunity to play? Building up from the defense is the first step in the attack. In particular, the combination of long and short passes from the center-backs has become a crucial part of Tokyo's new style. The selection and performance of these players will likely determine the outcome of the match.
On the other hand, in the Fukuoka match, there will be high expectations for defense in the center back position. Fukuoka has big forwards such as Juanma DELGADO and Lukian. Depending on the combination with players with different characteristics like Yuya YAMAGISHI and Daiki WATARI, it will not be easy to deal with.
While facing the strength, speed, and skill of the opponent's attacking line, they must also take on the responsibility of orchestrating the attack when they have the ball. They will return to their home, Ajinomoto Stadium, just five days after the Fukuoka match. In order to continue their winning streak and accumulate points, the performance of the center backs will be crucial.
