<Match Review>
The final match of the 2022 season has finally arrived. The opponent for this match is Kawasaki Frontale, a strong rival team separated by the Tama River. Having lost 0-1 in the opening match of this season, they are surely a great opponent to measure the team's growth over the season.
"Playing with the ball" (Coach Albert) This season, we have embarked on a transformation. In order to give the fans and supporters who have gathered at Ajinomoto Stadium expectations for further progress next season, we faced a match where results and content were demanded.
1st HALF - Trailing by 1 goal despite numerical advantage
The first half, which started with Tokyo's kickoff, was a continuous display of high intensity and quick transitions from both teams. Whenever they had the ball, they moved it quickly, and the defending team responded with a high press without stopping their feet. The beginning was a dizzying pace.
As the game settled down, there were more scenes where Kawasaki threatened to score. However, in the 7th minute of the first half, Kento TACHIBANADA's header missed the target, and in the 9th minute, Joao SCHMIDT's shot was saved by Jakub SLOWIK.
On the other hand, in the 12th minute of the first half, Tokyo made their first shot of the day. Using the combination of Hotaka NAKAMURA and Ryoma WATANABE on the right side, Koki TSUKAGAWA reacted to a loose cross ball and attempted a mid-range shot.
However, the reigning champion aiming for a third consecutive victory does not back down. In the 19th minute of the first half, Marcinho on the left side was unable to stop Yasuto Wakizaka in the center, who swung his favorite right foot. Slowik also reacted, but the ball that flew to the corner of the goal was sucked into the net, conceding the first goal.
Still, Tokyo aims for the equalizer without looking down. And in the 29th minute of the first half, Adailton, who broke through on Tsukagawa's feed, was brought down by the opponent's goalkeeper outside the penalty area, resulting in Sung Ryong JUNG being sent off and creating a numerical advantage.
After that, Tokyo continued to push forward. On the right side, Nakamura was able to take up a deep position many times, and many crosses were sent in. However, they did not connect with any players in front of the goal, and Adailton's overhead shot and Kuryu Matsuki's right-footed volley both missed the target, and the game went into halftime with a one-goal deficit.
2nd HALF - The match was not decided by one point
The equalizing goal was suddenly born. In the 2nd minute of the second half, a second attack from a corner kick. Nakata player stuck on the right side, and Tsukagawa player crossed, and Adailton player pushed in the scramble in front of the goal.
The game turned into a fierce battle from here. In the 8th minute of the second half, Tokyo's Luiz Phellype hit the bar with a shot, increasing the momentum for a comeback, but once again Kawasaki took a step forward. In the 16th minute of the second half, Masato Morishige lost the ball while trying to keep it near the goal line and switch with the opponent, allowing Tatsuta to make the final pass. Marcinho's shot in front of the goal didn't meet the ball, but Jakub Slowik's deflected ball was sucked into the goal.
However, Tokyo also fought back. In the 28th minute of the second half, Kazuya KONNO, who came on as a substitute, supplied a cross ball from the right side. Watanabe, who had moved to the outside left back position, crossed it back and Adailton scored with a header.
However, just after catching up to the tie, in the play, the ball was carried to the goal and in the end, Shintaro KURUMAYA's cross hit Watanabe's foot and went in. It was the third time they had allowed the lead to slip away.
Tokyo, who cannot afford to lose to a team with one less player at home, brought in players Leandro and Shuto ABE and launched an attack, but they were unable to break through the opponent's solid and concentrated defense, and the final whistle was blown after 5 minutes of additional time.
Albert Tokyo's first year ended in 6th place with 14 wins, 7 draws, and 13 losses.
MATCH DETAILS
＜FC Tokyo＞
STARTING Ⅺ
GK Yakubu Swobick
DF Hotaka Nakamura/Yasuki Kimoto/Masato Morishige/Yuto Nagatomo (21st minute of the second half: Kazuya Konno)
MF Koki Tsukagawa (21st minute of the second half: Hirotaka Mita)/Keigo Higashi/Kuryu Matsuki (36th minute of the second half: Leandro)
FW Ryoma Watanabe (36th minute of the second half: Shuto Abe)/Luiz Felipe/Adailton
SUBS
GK Akihiro HAYASHI
DF Junya SUZUKI/Seiji KIMURA
GOAL
2 minutes into the second half: Adailton/28 minutes into the second half: Adailton
＜Kawasaki Frontale＞
STARTING Ⅺ
GK Chung Sung-Ryong
DF Miki Yamane/Jesiel/Akihiro TANIGUCHI/Kyohei NOBORIZATO (32nd minute: Kenta TANNO)
MF João SCHIMIDT (14th minute: Ryota OSHIMA)/Yasuto WAKIZAKA (0th minute: Shintaro KURUMAYA)/Kento TACHIBANADA
FW Akihiro NAGAMURA/MARCINHO (35th minute: Kazuya YAMAMURA)/Yu KOBAYASHI (14th minute: Kei CHINEN)
SUBS
MF Kazuki KOZUKA
FW Daiya TONO
GOAL
First half 19 minutes: Wakizaka/Second half 17 minutes: MARCINHO/Second half 30 minutes: Own goal
[Interview with Coach Albert]
Q, please review today's game.
It was an unbelievable game to lose. We were able to start in a good shape. Kawasaki only looked for attacking opportunities from our mistakes and counterattacks. However, despite our good start, we conceded the first goal from our own ball loss. Kawasaki naturally has a high-quality team. If we make mistakes, they have the ability to score. After that, we continued to play well and Adailton was fouled, which could have led to an injury and resulted in a red card. After that, even though the opponent's numbers were reduced, we were able to dominate the game as we had expected. We created many chances but couldn't finish them, and because we are all human, there are players who make mistakes on the pitch. And unfortunately, we conceded a goal from one of those mistakes.
Towards the end of the season, I believe we were able to play well enough to deserve a victory in these two matches. If we had been able to accumulate points, it would have been possible to finish the season in 3rd or 4th place. However, I believe that things and phenomena happen for a reason. For us, finishing in 6th place in our first season of change is not a bad result at all. However, there was a possibility of finishing in 3rd or 4th place, and we ended up in 6th place despite playing well. I believe that this defeat contained a message that we still have a long way to go. It contains a message to keep our feet on the ground and continue to walk firmly. We were able to adapt well to the change in style, and there were many matches where we were able to play better than the teams that finished higher than us. In that sense, I believe it was a season that the players can be proud of.
Now, what we need is to rest. Not only the staff, but also the players have suffered through three difficult seasons due to the pandemic. That's why this time, the World Cup will give us a 2-month break. I believe we have put in the effort over the past 3 years to deserve a proper rest during this break. Let's rest well, replenish our energy, and aim for a good season next year with the foundation we have built this season.
Q: Are there any challenges in terms of attack for the upcoming season?
A, I think it was a 50-50 season. However, I don't think it was easy to achieve change. What I expect for next season is for the new players who will join to adapt quickly to the team. And, I want to continue building and growing the style we have been working on this season. I want to continue to convince the players. What will lead us to the top is a strong mentality that is committed to winning. We were able to express good soccer consistently in the last month. I hope we can express it for a longer period of time next season. I believe without a doubt that if we continue to play good soccer, we can continue to win. I hope for that next season. There is no guarantee of winning the title. Because there are 17 rival teams in the league, and they are also fighting to win the title with all their might. I think it shows a lack of respect for rival teams to say that we will definitely win.
[Player Interview]
<Akihiro HAYASHI>
Q, how did you feel when you entered the bench in the last game?
A, I'm not happy because we lost, but I'm glad we were able to return to the Tama River Clasico, which is the last game of the season. I think it was the best finale and I don't think I'll be able to play in the Tama River Clasico unless I go to Kawasaki Frontale while I'm still active, so I think it was a good ending except for the result.
Q, Did Lin player decide to terminate the contract before the final round?
A, yes, I asked to be released on my own will. During my 6 years here, I have been feeling inadequate for the past 2 years. There are many cases where the way of releasing does not work in favor of the players, but considering that, I couldn't just cut off all communication with those who have sent me messages and comments (on SNS, etc.) during these 2 years until I found a new team. It was an unusual situation for Tokyo, and as a player, I also wanted to keep it hidden, but I feel that I was able to overcome these 2 years thanks to the fans and supporters, so I wanted to express my gratitude by releasing this statement. I was offered the opportunity to speak in front of everyone, but I declined because I knew I would cry if I did. My thoughts are all in the released statement.
Q, did you see a lot of (Hayashi's) uniforms today?
A, I entered too much (lol). I saw that and almost cried, so I tried not to talk too much.
Q: How did you feel about hearing the "Hayashi Tokyo" call?
A, even with that kind of call, I almost cried, so I covered my ears as much as possible and could only hear a little (laughs).
In the comments about the end of the contract, there was a phrase "I hope to bloom one or two more flowers in my remaining soccer life", and I believe there are fans and supporters who are looking forward to their future activities.
A, the end of this contract is a big regret, and I still think I could have done more, so I want to perform well with the next team so that this team's decision turns into regret. Of course, I can understand the team's judgment. I think that a player who was useless for two years and returned at the end of the season cannot extend the contract, so I think that the biggest way to repay is to make the team regret (the end of the contract) with the next team.
Q, What position does FC Tokyo's 6 years hold among the many teams they have been a part of?
When I came to Tokyo, I felt that there was no sense of team unity. There were many skilled players, but they were playing individually and only tried to come together during games. I knew that we couldn't win with that approach. It was disappointing that we couldn't compete for the championship with this team. Over the past six years, I have been working to change this with Masato MORISHIGE, and I feel that we have become more human in the process.
Q, Do you have any memorable scenes during your time playing for this team?
When we had a strong individuality in our first year, it felt like we were just practicing. We weren't yet at the level of veterans, but there were a few older players and we didn't have much cohesion. That's when we started talking to each other and that's what left the biggest impression on me.
Q, communication between the goalkeeper and the final line was smooth, but there was an impression that the attacking line and the defensive line were divided. I think it was a task to stick to the core. Is the team now a team that sticks to the core?
A, First of all, it is necessary to win in the league to have a strong defense even if the content is bad. Even if the attack can ride on the wave at that time, it is not possible to get involved in the top if the defense is not stable. The previous players and the back players were divided, and we were doing it with the feeling that it would be good if we could have a solid defense, but that was not enough. In order to improve this team, we continued to talk about specific things such as how to make the players play comfortably, who will take on the role of connecting, and how to connect in the first year. It was a year of trial and error, but the results did not come out, and in the second year, we continued to try and error. This team still needs to try and error, and we need to come up with ideas, so even if I am gone, I think it will be difficult for the team to take another step without players in that position, so I want to entrust it.
Q, Did you talk to Go HATANO and entrust your feelings to him?
A, I have known him since he was in the first year of junior high school. We joined at the same time, and he started calling me Coach Hayashi. It was a start like a coach and player relationship. Even so, we practiced as goalkeepers together for 6 years, and it was a 6-year period of constantly talking about his habits and strengths. We are about the same height, so there were times when he made me realize things, and he was a teammate who pushed each other to improve. I received words of encouragement from him, but I also had the same feelings. It was a 6-year period where we both grew together.
Masato MORISHIGE
Q, Please tell us what you felt in today's match.
A, I think the game changed due to the opponent's red card. In the first half, we were able to control the ball while observing the situation, so we need to eliminate small mistakes that can affect the outcome of the game as a team.
Q, What part of the team's progress this season have you been able to confirm?
A, It's a difficult game to say just for today, but I think we have definitely grown including the battles we have had so far and what we have done so far. I think it's about the experience in this soccer, so I want to build on that.
Q, Will it be important to continue gaining experience in the coming season and beyond?
A, that's the most important thing, or rather, when the team is in this kind of situation, how do we handle these challenges, and if we've experienced it once or twice, I think we can respond better in the game.
Yuto NAGATOMO player
Q, you finished the season without any major injuries, didn't you?
A, it was good to be able to join the national team without any injuries and welcome the World Cup.
Q, this season, I played as a left and right fullback and was used in various ways by coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA. Did you find any areas of growth or discovery for yourself?
First of all, I think we were able to see Nagatomo's growth as a new right-back. Until now, he has only played overlapping on the outside and crossing, but under coach Albert, he was able to learn how to play in the center and the relationship with the wing, which will also be useful for the national team. I am grateful for that.
Q, Today, Matsuki filled in the space for Nagatomo and there was a scene where Nagatomo moved forward. The variations have increased.
In the national team, the members will change again, so I think I can adapt to various positions while increasing our teamwork.
Q, Coach Albert Puig Ortoneda said, "With a player with such a career, he could have ignored what I said. He always humbly did what he was told." What is the source of that humility?
A, because I want to grow. I am always striving for growth and constantly improving myself, so I can learn from anyone, regardless of their age or position. I am always looking for hints to help me grow. Being eager for growth is the root of it all.
Q, this is the fourth World Cup, how will you prepare for it in terms of your condition?
A, I am not worried about how to prepare my physical condition and mental state as I have participated in three tournaments and know myself well. In fact, I perform better under pressure as it releases adrenaline and makes me move like I am in my 20s again. That's why I am seeking pressure. The World Cup gives me a great amount of pressure, so I want to enjoy it.
<Keigo HIGASHI>
Q, How was the final match?
It was a game that we had to win, and in order to win next year, I feel that it will be difficult to win the title if we continue to play like we did today. We had to take three points against an opponent who had 10 players.
Q: Was it difficult to play after the opponent's number decreased due to conceding the first goal?
A, I think we are overwhelmingly advantageous rather than difficult, so there is no excuse for anything. I think that small mistakes, concentration, and the final decision are all about those parts. That's also the case with the Nagoya game in the previous round, where we didn't show any gaps. However, the direction we are heading and the style we are playing must not be shaken, and I think it is still a challenge to do that while also focusing on the decisive moments. I also want to be more and more committed to doing it myself.
Q, please tell us your goal for next season.
I want to win titles in both the league and cup competitions. I think we need to go for it even outside of the league, so I want to have that kind of season.
Q, The first match of this season and the final match of the season will both be against Kawasaki. I think there are parts that have been done based on the Kawasaki match, but how do you feel about the progress and momentum over the past year?
A, Honestly, it's difficult to compare (the opponent) when they are down to 10 players, but on the other hand, I think we can take it as a positive that we were able to make them down to 10 players. Not just the Kawasaki game, but I also think there are parts where we, as a team, have been able to do what we want to do since the opening. We can't solve everything in one year, so we have to keep doing it for 2 or 3 years, and I think everyone has to believe in it and do it without wavering.
Q, Did you have any expectations as a player for what you could achieve in this past year? Do you have a sense of accomplishment for what you have been able to do so far?
In terms of style, regardless of whether it is good or bad, it is clearly different. In that sense, there is a sense of accomplishment, but as I mentioned earlier, in soccer, small details make the difference in the game, and I feel that no matter what style, that part cannot be overlooked. Whether we can focus on that or not, it depends on the players' awareness and the ability to change together, and I think we can turn it into strength to win. That is still a challenge, and I think I have to lead the team as I get older, so we have to eliminate games like today's.
Adailton Player
Q, we ended the season with the most goals in the team. Please reflect on today's goals.
A, Looking back on this season, we were able to start the season in a good condition. I think that also led to being the top scorer in the team and we were able to enter the game with a good image. It's a shame that we couldn't win today's game, but I think it's a positive thing that we were able to score points.
Q, the first point was connected to the goal through a narrow course with a loose ball.
A, since we were in a losing situation, I wanted to first catch up to a tie. While playing with that mindset, the ball happened to fall in front of me and as a result of swinging my leg, it led to a goal, so I'm glad.
Q, the second header seemed to be well prepared for the return.
A, I think I was ready to score in a good way today. Not just with headers, but also with the first goal, I was thinking of throwing my body to score regardless of whether it was on the right, left, or with a header or a loose ball, so I think it was more of a good preparation than just being ready for headers.
Q, please reflect on the scene where you broke through one-on-one with the opposing goalkeeper in the first half.
A, Throughout the season, one of the challenges was finding space while connecting the ball, and I think it was also a result of our daily practice that we were able to successfully connect the ball on the right side and send it to the opposite space. It was the space I wanted and the ball came out at the timing I wanted, so it was just as I imagined and I think it was a result of our practice.
Q, How do you feel about the sense of accomplishment when looking back on the entire season again?
A, As I mentioned earlier, I am satisfied with this season in terms of being able to score many goals in good condition and share the joy with fans and supporters through my goals. It is a proud thing for me and I believe it will be a support for the future. I will continue to focus on results. Thank you for your support throughout the year.
<Koki TSUKAGAWA>
Q, what was it like to play against your former team?
A, it's just one word of regret. There were also parts where I was too tense, but it was truly a fun time, and I'm glad I came to this team. I'm also happy that I was able to have such a heated battle like this.
Q, What do you think were the key factors that determined the outcome of the match between two teams that both claim to play similar styles of football?
A, The opponent became 10 people, and it was a favorable development for us, but in the end, it seemed that Kawasaki was stronger in terms of determination and such, and the opponent had a championship while we had nothing honestly, but I felt that determination from the opponent.
Q, After the game, you were talking to your former teammates. What kind of conversation did you have?
A, I thought I should work harder because everyone gave me words of encouragement like "Do your best".
Q, there were also voices from the fans and supporters of Kawasaki Frontale.
A, I'm really happy.
Q, How was it for you to transfer this season and look back on it?
As an individual, I was able to have a fulfilling 3 months after transferring. I was able to contribute to the games and now I want to continue to perform well throughout the entire season, grow even more, and become a player who can help the team achieve a higher ranking and win the championship.
Q, Was it because you put in too much effort or because you were too tense today?
A, I also put too much power into my shot and it went somewhere else, so I wish I had been more calm in that situation.
Q, On the contrary, there were also parts where the team was saved from a pinch by forcing it. I thought it was good to put my body in and make it my ball, make decisive passes, and have a good sense of determination.
A, I hope to be able to grow more by firmly showing my strengths and also showing what I have learned.
Q, What did you feel the most when facing Kawasaki?
A, today has become a special development, but each individual is good at stopping and kicking, and I thought that they have confidence and confidence in their core.
Q, In terms of style, I think there are many things to learn, but how about that for next season?
A, although there is a lot to learn, the team has a solid foundation now, so I think each team has its own strengths and player's colors, but I hope to continue learning and further develop Tokyo's strengths.
Q, What do you think about the play where Sung Ryong JUNG was sent off and the ball was taken away from him? I think the feed from that play was really good.
A, I thought it was a foul when (Kento) TACHIBANADA fell, but it wasn't that strong of a hit, so I thought he was just trying to get a call, and the referee was also watching closely. With that development, I could clearly see what was going on, so I just had to follow through, and TACHIBANADA was truly superb.
Q, When did you realize you were free?
When Mr. Aki (the head of the family) came over, I was thinking of inviting him to go out and play.
Q, how was the first cross?
There were a lot of players inside, and I thought I could pass the ball well to Felipe, Ada, and Mr. (Kimoto) Yasushi.
Q: How was the match against Wakisaka?
A, although there weren't many opportunities for an expansive match-up, they were still skilled as usual.
Q, did you miss it?
A, there was no room for nostalgia (laughs)
Q: Do you feel that you are able to create chances through consistent plays?
A, I am always playing soccer with the mindset of wanting to make passes that lead directly to goals or do things that the opponent dislikes, so if it is thought that I am able to make such plays, I am happy.
Q, there were many great starts. I think what I learned in Kawasaki is coming to life in FC Tokyo, how was your play today?
A, the tasks given to me have changed since I was in Kawasaki, and what is required of me has also changed since coming to Tokyo. I think my strengths are even more evident here, so I hope to improve the quality and results even more.
<Kuryu MATSUKI>
Q, How did you approach this year?
I had a strong desire to play as a starting member in J1, and I felt confident during the camp. Thanks to coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA's trust and decision to use me, I was able to contribute to the team throughout the season. Although I couldn't live up to the high expectations, I believe we were able to do what we needed to do as a team.
Q, What are the differences between your first year fighting in high school and your first year fighting in the J-League?
A, In the J-League, there is also the World Cup this year, so I think the season ended a little early, but it felt even earlier. It left the impression that the season ended quickly.
Q, As a young player who has attracted attention this season, I think you have been featured in the media and mentioned by various senior players. How did you feel about that?
A, the most helpful on the pitch are the senior players around me, so there were things to absorb from them and of course things to learn. As I am the youngest playing in the game, I felt that I had to express that on the pitch.
Q, I think this year was also as a rookie, but next year will be a season after fighting for a year, so please tell us your aspirations.
A, I want to be more ambitious and challenge for better results next season.
Q, Please give a message to all the fans and supporters who have supported us for the past year.
Thank you for supporting us throughout the season.
Ryoma WATANABE
Q, I think the second goal was a one-touch cross back, but that play looks simple but it's actually a very difficult play. I think it was a scene that showed off the player's skill, what do you think?
I only remember aiming for Adailton and crossing it, so I'm glad he scored.
Q, I think I was able to play in that position precisely because I was playing on the left side. Also, I think my ability to create chances from any position was shown, what do you think?
When playing on the left side, I am conscious of waiting on the outside, so I thought it would be good to have a chance with the ball from Kazuya KONNO or Hotaka NAKAMURA. There was a scene where I couldn't match the cross ball from Mita, but I was able to grasp the distance and entry with the ball in that play, so I was able to consciously use that image in the next play.
Q, Was it because of that play that led to the goal?
A, that's right.
Q, How do you look back on scoring an own goal?
A, Returning to that position is also one of my strengths, so I want to use today's experience as a good learning opportunity for the future. I think I can improve on plays like that by gaining experience, so I feel like I learned something from it.
Q, Kawasaki plays soccer by taking positions while looking at the opponent's position. I think FC Tokyo could have also competed with a similar playing style, what do you think?
A, because we have the same soccer style, we were able to play while understanding the opponent's coming position, location, direction, and how they come. So, I want to firmly connect that to chances and move forward.
Q, How was the past year for you, starting and ending in Kawasaki?
A, I played as a side back in the first game, and it was a frustrating start. I think it was a season where I could have done much more throughout the season.
Q, Is there a difference you felt because of the same soccer style?
A, because we have the same soccer style, we were able to play while understanding the opponent's position, location, direction, and approach, so we want to firmly connect that to chances. One point is not taking risks, whether it's in a good or bad way. It's a soccer where we connect attacks from the back and kick the ball far, and even if we kick it far, if we can control the ball there, we can continue the attack. However, we, including the goalkeeper GK, will hold onto the ball, so I think that's different from Kawasaki.
The second goal was also a scene of conceding, but I think it was because it was us that we made a mistake and conceded there. So, rather than each individual player, I think this is a challenge for the entire team, and I hope we can continue to work on it.
![[2022 Season Review] Masato MORISHIGE Player Interview](/en/upload/Tokyoism/images/img_319_636e1b53-2d00-4feb-8a3b-2c4d0a000292.jpg)
