Q: What kind of response did the team feel during the match against Kashima?
In the match against Kashima last week, we were able to play the football we wanted and had a good game. With 5 matches remaining, the coach talked about treating each match as if it were the Final Round, and during the week leading up to the Kashima match, the team was really well prepared. Although Morishige was unable to play due to accumulation, there was a change with Kimura stepping in, but we had good practices, so before the match, there was a great atmosphere in the team, and we were absolutely confident we could win.
Q: I think we have been able to create more time to move the ball well in the last few matches.
As we continue to play matches, both the players and I feel that we are increasingly able to control the game while possessing the ball, and I believe we are improving significantly as a team. I no longer hesitate when the ball comes to me during possession, and I have a better understanding of the movements around me. I communicate and convey my movements to the other players, so while I often got caught by the opponent's defense in the beginning, I feel that recently we have been able to move the ball quickly and increase the number of vertical passes.
Q: What are the differences between matches that are played well and those that are not?
If the team is not able to play cohesively, it can get stuck in any position, and when one position gets stuck, we cannot control the ball ourselves, which I believe leads to games not going well.
Q: I felt that the scenes of you roaring and making triumphant poses during the Kashima match were impressive and that your emotions were coming to the surface. What do you think?
Yes, that's right. In the match against Kashima, I was playing alongside Kimura, so I really didn't want to concede any goals more than usual, and I wanted to win. Because of that, I was very motivated going into the match.
In the previous match against Kashima, I stood on the same pitch as my teammate Kimura.
It was one of my goals since becoming a professional. I'm glad that we were able to play good soccer together and win the match, so I was able to achieve one of my goals.
Q: What did you talk about before and after the match?
A said, "If we concede a goal from the left side, we will be criticized, so we must absolutely avoid that and help each other improve our evaluations." After the match, I felt a great sense of relief.
What are you learning from player Nagatomo?
A, I learn by observing the defensive positioning and preparations off the pitch. He answers any questions I ask, so I ask a lot, but I often inquire about how to deal with crosses. Until now, we have had scenes this season where we conceded goals due to poor cross defense. I asked player Nagatomo in detail about where to position myself when the ball is on the opposite side, and I made adjustments based on that.
Q: Is the presence of player Nagatomo significant?
A, I think I am in a really good environment because I can practice in the same position and under the same conditions as the top players in Japan.
Q: I think there will be many opportunities to play in matches this season, but what do you feel is improving and what is necessary for future growth?
A, this season I have played the most matches since turning professional. I feel that continuously playing matches and addressing the challenges that arise is the best way to grow. I am grateful to be able to play soccer in such an environment, and I feel that I am continuously challenging myself and going through trial and error. I feel that I am improving while doing so.
Q: What part do you feel has grown the most?
A, the biggest improvement is in defense. At first, my positioning was completely off. To be honest, I didn't notice much during the match, but after reviewing the game footage with the coaching staff, I can see that my positioning has changed for the better compared to before. By improving with each match, I feel that I can naturally take the correct position, and I sense some growth.
Q: Do you feel that you need to grow more as a person?
A: Players like Nagatomo and Nakamura possess qualities that I lack, and I often observe players in the same position during practice. However, I feel there are still many areas where I fall short, so I want to continue learning more.
Q: What are the key points of the Shonan match?
A. In the previous match, we were defeated due to low intensity, so first and foremost, we must not lose there. Additionally, if we can control the ball and finish decisively when it matters, I believe we can definitely win. I want to approach this match with the same mindset as when we faced Kashima in the Final Round.
Q: Do you think the battles on the sides will be key?
I think Shonan is also focusing on one-on-one situations on the side. If I can control that, launch an attack, and play in a way that prevents the opponent from attacking, I believe we can naturally play a more advantageous style of football, so I want to keep challenging myself.
As you continue to play in matches, has the joy of victory and the sense of responsibility increased?
A, since I am on the field, I feel happy when we win, and when we lose, I think it is my responsibility as part of the defense line. I believe that sense of responsibility has increased compared to when I first started.
