<Match Review>
In the opening match of this season, Tokyo secured a victory with cheers returning to their home Ajinomoto Stadium. However, there have been no wins in official matches over the course of three games, with a draw in between, until the home game after about a month. To change the momentum, the loud support at home is essential.
In this important match, Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA made changes to the team formation. He started rookies Tsubasa TERAYAMA and Kota TAWARATSUMIDA for the first time. The center backs were Yasuki KIMOTO and Henrique TREVISAN, who had paired up in the opening match.
1st HALF - Nakagawa extends the lead with his first goal since joining
The match suddenly comes to life. In the 5th minute of the first half, Teruhito NAKAGAWA receives the ball in an open position on the right side and sends a pass behind the opponent. Hotaka NAKAMURA, who has dashed into the so-called pocket area on the right side of the penalty area, turns and delivers a one-touch pass backward to Diego OLIVEIRA, who has entered the position directly in front of the goal. Diego turns and strikes with his left foot, sending the ball into the goal, giving Tokyo a great start with the opening goal.
Immediately after scoring, there were moments when they were pushed back by the opponent's counterattack, but they repeatedly approached the Yokohama FC goal through the dribbling plays of left winger Takuya Tawaratsukita. In the 16th minute, he made a move deep on the left side, drawing in two opposing players, and set up a shooting opportunity for the free Kei KOIZUMI. In the 18th minute of the first half, Tawaratsukita broke through near the goal line with an aggressive play. Although his shot just in front of the goal was blocked by the opposing goalkeeper, the winger's proactive attitude generated momentum for Tokyo.
In the 24th minute of the first half, a direct free kick was awarded in front of the goal, and Mita took a shot that hit the crowd and spilled in front of the goal. Ndoka approached freely, but Jakub SLOWIK, who closed the distance at just the right moment, managed to deflect it with his body and escaped the danger.
After a pinch, there is an opportunity. In the 27th minute of the first half, pressing from the front line to create a chance on the ball side. When Diego TABA closed in on a back pass to the opposing goalkeeper, Koizumi seized the opportunity from the desperate pass, inducing a passing error. Nakagawa picked up the ball in the penalty area and took advantage of the goalkeeper's advance, smoothly sending a looping shot into the right corner of the goal to extend the lead.
Tokyo takes control of the match by recovering the ball high up the pitch with coordinated pressing from the front line. In the 33rd minute of the first half, Kashif BANGNAGANDE sent in a cross from the left side, and Keigo HIGASHI jumped in to meet the ball that Diego TABA had headed back from the far side, but his header went over the crossbar.
In the 36th minute of the first half, they were broken down from the right side, and a cross was met right in front of them, but Jakub SLOWIK managed to clear it with his right hand from the goal.
It seemed they would head into halftime with the lead intact, but in the 45th minute of the first half, a cross from the left side was delivered into the goal area, and it hit the foot of player Kimoto while trying to clear it, resulting in a goal. They conceded one point due to an own goal and ended the first half.
2nd HALF - Diego's second goal extends the lead for the second victory of the season
At the start of the second half, Tokyo made two substitutions. Masato MORISHIGE came on for Henrique, and Koki TSUKAGAWA was brought on for Terayama.
In the 10th minute of the second half, Yuto NAGATOMO, who was brought on in the latter part of the first half, intercepted the ball in a high position and initiated a quick counterattack. With both teams having equal numbers, Tawaratsukita received the ball inside the penalty area, evaded the opposing defender, and had a shooting opportunity, but the ball struck by his right foot was blocked by the opposing goalkeeper.
Tokyo, who took control of the pace from the start of the second half, created chances with pressing from the front and quick counterattacks. In the 62nd minute, Nagatomo, who initiated the play on the right side, evaded his marker and delivered a cross in front of the goal. Tsukagawa acted as a decoy at the near post, allowing Diego TABA, who was positioned in front of the goal, to head the ball into the bottom right corner.
In the first half, Jakub SLOWIK made several fine saves to save the team, and he showed a big save in the second half as well. In the 24th minute of the second half, when he was pressed by the opponent in the vital area and a shot was taken, he lunged at the ball, which changed direction after hitting a blocking player, and deflected it away from the goal with his right hand.
As the match entered its final stages, offensive cards such as Adailton and Yuta ARAI were played one after another. Then, in the 32nd minute of the second half, ARAI got involved in a chance. Diego TABA, who had gotten behind the opponent, struck with his left foot just in front of the left side of the goal, and the ball hit the post and spilled to the right side of the penalty area. ARAI dove in just as the opposing goalkeeper was unable to reach it and made a one-touch attempt, but the shot went over the goal.
After it became 3-1, Tokyo maintained possession of the ball and continued to control the match. There were moments when they faced counterattacks due to ball losses, but with the strong support from the stands, Tokyo maintained their lead until the final whistle. This marked their second victory of the season since the opening match.
MATCH DETAILS
<FC Tokyo>
STARTING Ⅺ
GK Jakub Słowik
DF Hotaka NAKAMURA (38th minute: Yuto NAGATOMO)/Yasuki KIMOTO/Henrique Trevisan (0th minute: Masato MORISHIGE)/Kashif BANGNAGANDE (29th minute: Yuta ARAI)
MF Keisuke KOIZUMI/Kengo HIGASHI/Tsubasa TERAYAMA (0th minute: Koki TSUKAGAWA)
FW Teruhito NAKAGAWA/Diego Oliveira/Kota TAWARAZUMIDA (21st minute: Adailton)
SUBS
GK Taishi Brandon NOZAWA
FW PEROTTI
GOAL
5th minute of the first half: Diego OLIVEIRA/27th minute of the first half: Teruhito NAKAGAWA/17th minute of the second half: Diego OLIVEIRA
＜Yokohama FC＞
STARTING Ⅺ
GK Kengo NAGAI
DF Takumi NAKAMURA/Boniface NDOKA/Katsuya IWATAKE/Kento HASHIMOTO (substituted in 67th minute: Kotaro HAYASHI)
MF Yuri LARA (substituted in 46th minute: Shion INOUE)/Keiki MITA/Towa YAMANE (substituted in 46th minute: Ryo YAMASHITA)/Tatsuya HASEGAWA (substituted in 75th minute: Sho ITO)/Koki SAKAMOTO (substituted in 67th minute: CAPRINI)
FW Koki OGAWA
SUBS
GK Akinori ICHIKAWA
DF Kyohei YOSHINO
GOAL
First Half 45 Minutes: Own Goal
[Albert PUIG ORTONEDA Coach Press Conference Comments]
Q, please review the game.
A, regarding the first half today, I have never played this poorly before. It was a first half where we could have taken the lead and scored additional goals, but we did not play as we expected. There were many instances where we played in fear of holding the ball, and overall our positioning was not appropriate. Although we were missing about three high-quality midfielders, that cannot be an excuse. The play in the first half today is something that needs improvement. It is not just about holding the ball. An important element of my style is the quick transition between offense and defense from high pressing. I think we performed well in that aspect today. However, we were not aiming for quick transitions in all aspects. Sometimes we need to remain calm and build up from a low position to advance in a good shape. Unfortunately, we could not do that today. Especially in the first half, we were unable to play calmly. After bringing in players Morishige and Tsukagawa at halftime, we saw improvements in terms of calmness. Continuing from the first half, we were able to win the ball from high pressing in the second half and execute quick transitions. We created several decisive chances in that form. I believe we could have scored more goals. Today, we secured three points. However, I am not at all satisfied with the play in the first half. I am satisfied with the content of the second half and the performance of the young players. I think many people noticed the talent of 18-year-old Tawara Tsukita today. He is a promising winger. I hope he continues to work hard with a humble mindset and grows into a wonderful player.
Q: It seemed that Nakamura was substituted due to injury in the first half, and Kashif BANGNAGANDE was substituted due to injury in the second half. As a coach, it must have been difficult to manage the players.
A, the team that has been training in the preseason has gathered wonderful players. However, unfortunately, there are many players who will be absent due to representing the under-category, as well as those who are out due to injuries. There were also players who were suspended due to warnings. Abe's injury was muscle-related, but for other players, it was due to accidents, which is very unfortunate. With many players out, the situation is very difficult. If everyone were present, we could expect a play closer to the ideal with the members we have. But now, we must adapt to the situation where many players are out. It is precisely because of this situation that we have expectations for the young players' performances. The J1 League is a very competitive league. We want to overcome this difficult situation by combining everyone's strength, and we hope to accumulate points steadily during this time. Furthermore, when the players who are currently out return, we want to further accumulate points with everyone's quality.
Q: Please tell us the points you evaluate about player Tawaramizuki and the points you think are challenges.
A, he is in a position similar to Matsuki last season. To succeed in the professional world, one must possess two abilities. First is a strong mentality focused on winning. Without that, one cannot thrive in the professional realm. The second is to have a clear weapon. In the case of Matsuki, it is to demonstrate technical skills and defensive abilities in midfield. For Tawaramizuki, it is about attacking in one-on-one situations. When one possesses those two elements, the key to growth is to be given opportunities to play. That is why I believe young players in Japan need playing opportunities. Playing can promote the growth of players. I think the J-League is a suitable league for young players to grow while playing. Therefore, I believe it is appropriate for the Japan Football Association, the J-League, and teams to cooperate so that young players can remain in the J-League, grow while playing, and challenge overseas when they mature. I do not think it is appropriate for young players still in the growth process to go abroad. I want to give young players opportunities and promote their growth.
[Player Interview]]
<Teruhito NAKAGAWA>
Q: You were able to score early in the season, how do you feel about that?
I think it is important for the team to have scored in that way. Personally, I am glad that I was able to score for now. However, there were still many chances to score, so I want to improve my accuracy.
Q: A goal was scored at home at Ajinomoto Stadium.
A, I think this is the most important thing. I want to continue to work not only on scoring goals but also on contributing to the team's victory, including assists. I want to carry this momentum into the next match.
Q: Did Diego OLIVEIRA play with any specific awareness while he was holding the ball quite well?
When I entered with Diego, I was conscious of staying as close as possible to avoid interfering, and I think I was able to coordinate while maintaining balance. I feel that the accumulation of practice is gradually being expressed in matches.
Q: How was the awareness of connecting the ball and the urgency, which were pointed out as issues in the match against Kyoto SANGA F.C.?
A, I think we made good judgments based on the situation in this match, but there were times in the first half after Hotaka NAKAMURA was substituted when we couldn't push back the opponent, so I believe we need to improve on that as a challenge.
Q: How was the second half?
In the second half, I think it was significant that we were able to create chances right from the start and bring the game to our pace. As a common understanding within the team, we were particularly conscious of starting the second half with more momentum than our opponents, and it was good that we were able to express that.
Q: How do you feel about the coordinated press during the scoring scene?
A, it was something I was aiming for. When I took it, I was only looking at the ball, but I think the press worked well and led to a good goal.
Q: What is your relationship like with Nakamura on the right side?
When one player has the ball on the side, the team is aware that the other should aim for the pocket. Since we have been able to score points, I hope we can continue to aim for that as a team.
Q: This season, it's your first full appearance. Are you satisfied with it?
A, I am in good condition and enjoying playing soccer. I want to stay focused and do my best in the next away match against Nagoya Grampus while maintaining our momentum.
<Diego OLIVEIRA>
Q: How do you feel when you look back at your first goal?
A good ball came from Hotaka NAKAMURA on the right side, so I was able to score with a good trap and turn. I think it was a great goal that energized the team at the beginning of the first half.
Q: I think scoring from a turn is one of your strong plays, but did you aim for it from the beginning?
I had the image of shooting directly from the cross, but since the ball veered slightly behind, I chose to trap it and turn.
Q: The second goal was from a cross by Yuto NAGATOMO.
A, the second goal was also from a ball on the right side, a very good cross from Yuto NAGATOMO, so it was just a matter of scoring. Today, I happened to score a goal, but I believe the most important thing is that whoever scores, the team wins. I am very happy that we were able to achieve victory.
Q: Last season, you struggled with injuries, but how does it feel to score after overcoming that?
A, last season, I played while enduring pain, so I couldn't perform to my satisfaction. Now, I am very happy to be able to play without any pain. I truly appreciate all the fans and supporters.
Q: I think the first goal of the season is important for a striker, what do you think?
As a forward, I think the first goal is very important, and I'm glad I was able to score today. Additionally, being able to score the second goal as well has created a good momentum for the future, so I want to score again in the next match.
Q: After the goals and after the match, a loud "Diego Call" echoed in the stadium. How was it?
A, your support today was very helpful. Of course, the support you gave last season, even when things were tough, was encouraging. But today, I was also happy to score a goal. I think it was a very good match where I could celebrate together with the fans and supporters.
<Yuto NAGATOMO>
Q, please review the game.
We were able to score from the first half and had good attacks, but there were also dangerous moments, making it a difficult match. When the chance to play in the match came to me, I was able to enter the game properly. I was happy to contribute to the victory with an assist after a long time.
Q: You came on as a substitute due to an accident, but how did you feel entering the match?
I entered the match with a strong desire to win. I wanted to be involved in scoring, so while I focused on defense, I also participated in the attack.
Q: There was another incident, and there was a change in position to left back.
A, I have gained a lot of experience so far, and with that data of experience, I believe I was able to play steadily without rushing.
Q: You achieved an assist, was it as you intended?
A, I valued the feeling of wanting to compete. I practiced shooting from crosses many times in training. Since many players, including Diego TABA, were entering the area in front of the goal, I thought it would go in even if I didn't aim precisely.
Q: I think you had more sharpness than usual, what do you think?
A, I will be 37 years old this year, but I personally feel that my speed has actually increased. I believe this is the result of my training. Now, I am sharing my training experiences with players like Tawaratsukita and younger players. Since my speed and propulsion have improved, I have reaffirmed my confidence that my training was not wrong.
Q: Although the condition is good, there has been no appearance in the starting lineup.
My goal is to contribute to the team's victory and lift the trophy, so I believe it is good as long as I can contribute to the team in any way. I can contribute by starting the match or by coming on later to tighten up the team. I want to fulfill the role given to me.
Q: Please share your impressions of playing together with 18-year-old Tawaramizuki player.
During training at the Okinawa camp, I was outplayed by him in a one-on-one situation. At that moment, I thought this player is exceptional, and I must not let him slip away. I felt from that one play that he is a player who can make an impact. After that, we started training together, and I have given him a lot of advice during that time. He is gaining confidence and is becoming more dynamic, but I believe he still has a lot of room to grow. Although his condition is not perfect due to consecutive matches, I once again felt that he possesses overwhelming speed.
<Tsubasa TERAYAMA>
Q, how was it playing at Ajinomoto Stadium?
A, Ajinomoto Stadium is a stage I have admired since I was in middle school. I am very happy to have been able to play at Ajinomoto. Since the team was on a two-game losing streak, it was a match we absolutely had to win, so I was really focused.
Q: There are many contact plays, and I am worried about injuries.
A, I believe that in order to compete against strong opponents, it is necessary to defend fiercely at the ball. I think we were able to do that.
Q: How was it playing on the left side with Kashif BANGNAGANDE and Kota TAWARATSUMIDA, who are from the academy?
A, being from the academy, we talked about dominating the left side with the three of us the day before the match. It was great to be able to play together.
Q: Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA mentioned that he values Tsubasa TERAYAMA's mentality. How do you feel about that?
A, Kuryu MATSUKI is in a lower grade than me. I have been watching him perform in Tokyo since last season. In that sense, having such an inspiring player nearby is really motivating. I need to do more, and Matsuki's presence has a positive influence on me.
Q: I believe that Terayama and Matsuki possess a strength as individuals that goes beyond just their skills.
A, thinking about how I can contribute to the team is one of my strengths. I always strive to show my strength during the matches.
Q: It was your first time playing at Ajinomoto Stadium as a professional. How was the victory in that match?
A, when the final whistle blew, I felt the joy and excitement of the fans and supporters. As the end of the match approached, I could hear the city that never sleeps. It reminded me of the times I watched games at the stadium when I was in middle school. I was really happy to hear that on the pitch this time, and it made me feel like a professional.
Q: What is it like to see Ajinomoto Stadium from the pitch as a professional?
A, if I were to say it in one word, it was a really great view. I felt more than ever today, with the victory, the support of many fans and supporters who are fighting with their feelings behind us. I want to continue to accumulate victories and share joy with fans and supporters in many matches.
Q: I think there were various emotions that fluctuated during the three matches without a victory.
A, looking back at my play, it was a frustrating 45 minutes. However, I believe that the most important thing is that Tokyo wins. It was a difficult situation with no victories in the last two matches, so I think it was really great that we were able to win. The veteran players were leading the team and boosting morale even before the warm-up. I think I was able to get into a good atmosphere as well.
<Kota TAWARATSUMIDA>
Q: You created several chances from the left side. How do you feel about getting used to being a professional?
I felt that there were many scenes where my dribbling was effective, and I was able to play with confidence.
Q, please review the finishing part.
Yes, it's a challenge. We have to finish our chances. I can visualize it, but I think we lack the final technique. To finish in matches, we need to practice regularly, so I want to train hard.
Q: Were you able to visualize the goal even in one-on-one situations with the opposing GK?
I think it's important to have composure, as I got flustered when I evaded one opponent and saw the GK.
Q: The person I was facing was former FC Tokyo player Takumi NAKAMURA. What kind of tactics were involved?
A, regardless of the opponent, I had to focus on my own play to survive, so that was all I was thinking about. Since a large part of my game is based on my own instincts rather than the opponent's, I try to go for it when I feel I can.
Q: Are you playing more by feel rather than distinguishing between dribbling and passing?
The part where I take on a dribble and break through is instinctive, but I think carefully about decisions like passing, and I also learn from my seniors.
Q: High school graduates are participating in matches as if it's the norm. How do you feel about that?
Last season, Matsuki showed that even high school graduates can play in J.League matches if they can compete, so I thought I would use that as a reference and make sure to showcase my efforts. At the time when I was being evaluated for promotion from U-18 to the top team, Matsuki was active at the top level, so I decided to aim for that and strive to surpass it.
Q: Did you have the feeling today that you wanted to achieve your own results, especially since Kumada has been performing well in the U-20 Asian Cup?
A, Kumada has scored for the national team, but it is important to first focus on myself, so I want to improve my finishing ability in the final moments.
