Q, please review the National game and scoring scenes.
First, let's talk about the scoring scene. When the ball was passed to Mita and he was dribbling, I could imagine a 4-on-2 situation in my head. Also, before the game started, we talked as a team about taking long shots, including the condition of the ground. So when Mita carried the ball that far, I could imagine taking a shot. I always keep in mind the possibility of a rebound after a shot, so I didn't give up until the end. As a result, the ball luckily fell in front of me and all I had to do was push it in.
Q, Have you thought about scoring goals in three consecutive games at the National Stadium, including the final of the 2021 Levain Cup season?
A, I always think that I have to approach every stadium with 100% effort and I always want to score. I think we have a great compatibility with the National Stadium as we have scored in three consecutive games there, and I would be happy if we have a game at the National Stadium again.
Q: How do you feel about scoring 8 goals in the 2020 J1 League season, 9 goals in the 2021 season, and reaching 10 goals for the first time this season?
I am happy to have reached 10 goals, but as a player, I believe it is important to improve every year. I think it is a positive thing that my goal count has increased with each season. I believe that reaching 10 goals was an important milestone for me to help the team achieve a higher ranking and for me to climb up the goal scoring rankings.
Q, Looking at the scoring rankings for this season, it seems that the top scorer is also within sight.
When looking at the current number of goals, I am aiming to be the top scorer and have that in my sights. Of course, there are still games left for players competing in the rankings, but I am conscious of scoring and want to be the player with the most goals when the season ends.
If you become the top scorer in the wing position instead of center forward, it would be amazing.
A center forward is closer to the goal, so it may be easier for them to score. However, I also think that in situations where I can enter from the wing or take a shot, I can shoot firmly and sometimes it will luckily go into the goal. Also, there are of course goals that I have practiced. Of course, it is true that the center forward is in a position where it is easier to score, but I think that it is more important that I myself am aiming for the goal and as a result, it leads to a goal.
Q, looking forward to the 11th goal.
A, I will do my best to win.
Q: What is the reason for consistently scoring 10 goals this season?
A, I think there is of course a connection with God. And I think the results of my training are showing. In my daily efforts, whether I start in the game or come in later, I want to play for the team and leave visible results such as goals and assists. As a result, I was able to reach 10 goals this season.
Q, I think the next Kashima game will be an important one for the team to move up in the rankings.
A, all members of the team understand that the next Kashima game will be an important match in order to move up in the rankings. We were able to enter the Kyoto game with a good flow from the beginning and had a good game for the full 90 minutes. We want to have a good start just like that and achieve good results, so we will spend this week preparing for it.
Q: Kashima changed coaches in the middle of this season, but I think there are both parts that still remain true to Kashima and parts that are trying to change. What do you want to pay attention to while fighting?
A, Kashima has changed coaches and there may be some changes in the way they play, but I think the most important thing is whether they can stick to their own style. The opponents may have different ways of playing or new styles, but it is crucial for us to focus on what we need to do and if we can't do that, victory will be out of reach. We need to fight for 90 minutes and aim for victory after doing what we need to do.
Q, this season has also reached 5 games. Have you become more aware of your role and other things in the soccer that coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA demands as you have played so far?
A, I think the role demanded by the coach has not changed since the beginning of the season. However, the level demanded has also changed, and I think that the level of response has increased compared to the beginning of the season.
Q, there are games where you play as a starting member and games where you enter in the middle. I think it's more difficult to enter a game in the middle.
A, Of course, when entering the game from the middle, the intensity of the press and the demands are different from when they are already out from the beginning, so I think it is difficult for the players to enter the game from the middle, but there are things that must be done, so I am thinking about playing while considering what needs to be done.
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