Review of the previous match against Urawa Reds
This was the first away game under Peter CKLAMOVSKI's management. The opponent was Urawa Reds. On that day, over 49,000 spectators gathered at Saitama Stadium 2002, and the stadium was filled with excitement from the pitch warm-up.
At the same time, both teams were troubled by the humidity. The rain that had been falling intermittently since morning was hovering over the stadium like steam.
The first half was a development where the excitement seemed to transfer directly to both teams. Tokyo maintained a compact formation while increasing their pressing from the front, and Urawa launched quick counterattacks aiming for Tokyo's backline.
On this day, Tokyo's big chance came in the 20th minute of the first half. In the midfield battle, Kuryu MATSUKI picked up a loose ball and sent a through pass into the left half-space (the midpoint between the center and the side). Kota TAWARATSUMIDA, who made an inner lap, broke free and returned the ball to Matsuki, who was running into the penalty area. Before the opponent could fully mark him, Matsuki connected with a direct shot. Unfortunately, it was touched by the opposing goalkeeper and hit the right post, going off target, but Tokyo's quick counterattack shone as they broke through the narrow area to create a scoring opportunity.
Just before the end of the first half, a big crisis arose. Sekine's middle shot was deflected by a teammate's block and flew towards the corner of the goal, but Jakub SLOWIK, sensing the trajectory of the ball, made a big save by changing the direction of his dive and deflecting it with his right hand. The goalkeeper's incredible reflexes kept the goal safe, and the first half ended.
As the second half begins, the hot and humid environment affects the high-intensity football in Tokyo. In the 11th minute of the second half, Ryoma WATANABE created a decisive scene with his individual skill, but gradually the team's energy levels dropped, causing the formation to stretch and making it difficult to apply pressure from the front line.
As the team struggled to get out of their own half for an extended period, Seiji KIMURA was brought on in the final stages to ensure risk management and prevent conceding goals. On the other hand, when they regained possession, they launched counterattacks and continued to keenly aim for a goal, creating a chance for a free kick just before the end of the match.
Although there was a longer period of being at a disadvantage compared to the two home matches, the intensity and fighting spirit were maintained until the end, leaving a strong impression of their transformation into a fighting group.
Match Preview
Since Peter CKLAMOVSKI took office in June, the team has kept a clean sheet in three consecutive league matches, with two wins and one draw, remaining unbeaten. In the 3rd Round of the Emperor's Cup, they also triumphed in the penalty shootout to advance to the Round of 16. The team's condition is showing a rapid upward trend.
Coach Klamovski said, "I believe that the actions of everyone in the club are reflected in our results. We are united and taking each day as it comes, and that is showing in our performance," while praising the team's strong start, he continued with a shake of his head.
"There is still much we can do. I believe that by working step by step without being complacent, we can get closer to our dreams."
The final match before the league break this round will welcome Kashima Antlers to Ajinomoto. While it is not an easy mission to break through the opponent's solid defense while containing the powerful two-top of Yuma SUZUKI and Yuki KAKITA in the front line, the momentum of the team is in Tokyo's favor. Given that both teams engaged in a fierce battle that went to penalties in the recent Emperor's Cup, conditioning leading up to the match will be a key factor in determining the outcome.
Tokyo's summer has just begun. From here, the team will evolve further, and the hot 'Pita Tokyo' will take center stage in the midsummer.
The matchday program is here
[Interview with Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI]
Q: After a fierce battle against Verdy, we achieved victory. Please reflect on the match once again.
It was a cup match, and there were various situations that could arise. It became a truly intense game where we couldn't know what would happen until the end. As a team, I believe we were able to perform at our best. Of course, I think it would have been better if we could have decided the match within 90 minutes, and we had several chances to determine the outcome of the game.
Thanks to the efforts of the players, I believe it became a game that will remain in the memories of fans and supporters for a lifetime. In the match against Verdy, the players demonstrated their individual mentalities, characters, and love for the club. They showed a level of play that made everyone proud, embodying the spirit of "Blue and Red is Tokyo."
Q: Please tell us your impression of Kashima Antlers, who we will be facing this match.
I think it will be a tough match. I want to prepare thoroughly as always and make it a game where we give everything to take the three points. I believe that whoever is in the lineup will prepare for the battle. I want to prepare with all my might and make it a match that will bring smiles to our fans and supporters as they head home.
Q: Is your stance to focus on the upcoming match and give it your all?
If we do not focus on the match in front of us, we may lose sight of what is important. I hope we can give our best in the next match and move forward step by step.
Q: It has been announced that Shuto ABE's complete transfer to RWD Molenbeek (Belgium) has been agreed upon between the clubs. From Coach CKLAMOVSKI's perspective, how did Shuto ABE appear?
I am happy to have fought alongside player Abe in the same team. As you can see from his current hair color, I know how much he loved Tokyo. I believe he made a big decision to chase his own dreams. I wholeheartedly support his success 100 percent.
[Player Interview]
＜Kuryu MATSUKI＞
Q: On July 12th, in the Emperor's Cup 3rd Round, we defeated Verdy after a penalty shootout.
A, I think the fans and supporters were really motivated because we were up against Verdy, and we also approached the match intending to show an overwhelming performance against our opponent. Verdy worked hard as well, so it became a tough match, but the fans and supporters provided incredible encouragement, and I believe that their support helped us achieve victory.
Q. Since Peter CKLAMOVSKI took office, the team has been unbeaten in 4 official matches. What do you feel has changed significantly with the coaching change?
A, the coach is asking all players to change their mindset, especially demanding a strict awareness of defense. I believe that since Coach Klamovski took over, everyone has been sprinting back when the ball is lost and has been committed to defending in front of our own goal. The attacking side has not changed significantly, and it gives the impression that while incorporating the strengths of the previous style of football, Coach Klamovski is also adding his own touch. I think we are gradually getting closer to the football we aim for. So far, we have gone through the league matches without conceding a goal, but it is very important now to continue winning points in such matches. By keeping our opponents at bay without conceding and fighting to score as many goals as possible, I believe our ranking will improve.
Q: It seems that Coach Klamovski emphasizes not only tactics but also the mental aspect of approaching the game.
I believe he is a coach who has strong feelings about the matches, approaches us with passion and enthusiasm. He is not always intense; when we talk individually, he also mixes in jokes, creating a relaxed atmosphere.
Q: Since Coach Klamovski arrived, Matsuki has increased the number of shots. Has there been any change in awareness on the offensive side?
A, I haven't changed my awareness of attacking much, but since the system has become a double pivot, I think I will go forward boldly when I can while maintaining balance. The change in awareness has come more in terms of countermeasures and risk management rather than attacking. The pivot and center backs must cooperate and always be cautious, or we will be vulnerable to counterattacks, so I am strongly aware of that balance.
Q: After this match, Shuto ABE will transfer to RWD Molenbeek (Belgium). What does Shuto ABE mean to Matsuki?
Since joining Tokyo, I have had many opportunities to play in midfield with Abe, learning various things and being inspired. So, while I honestly feel a sense of loneliness, at the same time, I also feel that I cannot afford to lose. For the team and for Abe, I am only seeking victory in this match. My goal is to finish without conceding any goals and to win, and I want to fight with all my strength.
Q: Please share your enthusiasm for the match against Kashima Antlers.
A, we are only seeking victory. I think it is very significant to be able to play a home game before the break, so first, I want to focus on finishing without conceding any goals and winning, while also building on the content.
<Kei KOIZUMI>
In the Emperor's Cup match against Verdy, both full-backs exemplified hard work.
A, I still have a long way to go, but left-back Yuto NAGATOMO led the team by playing the full 120 minutes at the age of 37. I can only say it was truly amazing. I believed that in cup matches, the result is more important than the content. Since it was a match against Verdy, we went into extra time, but I think we were able to focus solely on winning.
Q: Do you feel that you are successfully managing your condition during the consecutive matches?
A, I am always conscious of preparing well. The Emperor's Cup is a tournament, so I didn't think there would be any easy matches. I am preparing for anything that may happen.
Q: This match will be a reunion against Kashima Antlers.
A, we have faced each other many times, and many of the members who were with us at that time are still playing for Kashima. My play is one thing, but many players know a lot about my personal side.However, I also know what kind of team Kashima is and how the players play. As I mentioned before, I only have good memories of the team Kashima, and I am filled with gratitude. It is an exciting match.
Q: Since becoming coach Klamovski, there is an impression that the intensity has been sharpened. Do you feel you can approach this match with more confidence than in the previous encounter?
I believe that the high intensity required in practice is also reflected in the matches. Since we are facing Kashima in a series of consecutive games, it is important for all players to prepare thoroughly for the match, which will lead to a good fight. In the Emperor's Cup, we had a 120-minute battle against Verdy, so I want to prepare to fight without being complacent.
