<Last Match Review: Yokohama F.Marinos>
A match against Yokohama F.Marinos, who have been playing a championship battle after a break and winning consecutive games in the league. Is the reason for the consecutive wins due to their momentum, or is it due to the permeation of Peter CKLAMOVSKI's fighting style that they have been working on during the break? It was a perfect opponent to measure Tokyo's current situation as a barometer.
The start was a sudden shock. Despite trying to increase pressure on the ball holder, they were overwhelmed by the momentum of Yokohama FM and their passes were easily intercepted, resulting in a period of being pushed back into their own half.
And in the 12th minute of the first half, the defense line was aggressively pushed up and the goalkeeper was left in a 1-on-1 situation, blocking the opponent's shot twice but unable to catch the third rebound, resulting in a goal and conceding the lead.
However, Tokyo was not relying on their winning streak. They thoroughly implemented their promises on both offense and defense that they had been working on during the break. By quickly switching between offense and defense, they were able to catch a rhythm and launch counterattacks faster than their opponents, causing chaos in Yokohama FM's defense.
And, within the first half, we will open up the goal in our own way.
In the 23rd minute of the first half, Teruhito NAKAGAWA, who had the ball on the right side, dribbled towards the center of the pitch and sent the ball out to the vast space on the left side with an outside kick of his right foot.
Player Kota TAWARATSUMIDA, who received the ball, quickly sped up and carried the ball vertically without hesitation. After assessing the situation in front of the goal, Diego OLIVEIRA, who controlled the ball in a battle with the opponent, scored the equalizer by putting a cross ball into the near side.
A lightning-fast strike from Tokyo, with three players - a center forward and two wingers - attacking relentlessly after gaining possession of the ball.
In the second half, they created two decisive opportunities that hit the crossbar, and played a soccer that was not inferior to the top team in terms of content. While we certainly wanted the result, the highlight of this match for Tokyo was the feeling of pulling it closer to us and getting a goal.
<Match Preview>
Tokyo claimed their second consecutive victory after defeating Cerezo Osaka and Kyoto Sanga F.C. in the resumed league. They suffered a 1-2 loss against second-placed Yokohama F.Marinos in the previous round, but under the guidance of coach Peter Cklamovski, they have now recorded 4 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses in the league. Despite the scorching heat, the players have been able to improve their condition and show a stable performance.
Team's oldest player Yuto NAGATOMO jokingly said, "If I can't move in even one game, it's over," and continued, "That's also the pride of a veteran. Keigo HIGASHI and Masato MORISHIGE are also being rewarded for their daily efforts. They prepare for practice more than anyone else and train diligently. It's because the standards of what it means to be a professional are high that we can still run at this level. There is a reason why we are able to move."
This round, we will face Vissel Kobe, who is currently in 2nd place in the league. Kobe has recorded 44 goals, the 2nd highest in the league, with players such as Yuya OSAKO and Yoshinori MUTO leading the attack. Under coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI, Tokyo's solid defense, which has kept a clean sheet in 5 out of 7 league matches, will once again be put to the test. Of course, it will be Tokyo who will win at the sacred ground, National Stadium.
Matchday Program here
[Interview with Peter Cklamovski]
Q, There were also some close shots hitting the crossbar in the Yokohama F.Marinos match. How much did you focus on shooting in this week's practice?
First of all, we need to create such shooting opportunities and do it properly. I want to encourage the players to be able to play until the end and focus on the final part. It's just about expressing what we have been polishing, building up, and improving. Shooting and scoring are the most important things in the game and we need to improve them. In addition to those scenes, we had a chance to score additional points in the Yokohama FM match. It was a very good atmosphere in the away game against the reigning champions last season, and there were also positive aspects. We just need to continue to improve.
Q, Please tell us about the strengths of Vissel Kobe, who quickly heads towards the goal.
A, Kobe seems to be doing what they should do as a team without wavering. I feel the strength of the team, and not only quick attacks but also long balls are used, and scenes where they open up the opponent's goal can be seen. I am very sorry for Saito's injury, but I think they are preparing for the weekend match firmly. No matter which team we face, we will challenge in the game and go for 3 points. There is nothing to fear for us. If we can fully demonstrate our way of fighting, fight actively and bravely, and focus on each play, I believe we can defeat any team. I am excited to be able to play at the Japan National Stadium. I hope that people in Tokyo will come to the venue. The support and encouragement of fans and supporters give us strength. Please invite your friends and come to the stadium. Let's make it a wonderful night.
Q, Is this the first time for Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI to take command at the Japan National Stadium?
I have passed by it several times while driving (laughs). I thought it was a very beautiful stadium. It's my first time taking command and entering the stadium. I think it will be a very special match, a special night. I want you to come and watch an exciting game. Kobe is a very strong team and we will need toughness. Let's fight together with the fans and supporters to grab a victory against Kobe, who is running at the top as Tokyo.
[Player Interview]
＜Masato MORISHIGE＞
Q, In the previous match against Yokohama F.Marinos, we continued to focus on our defense, but unfortunately it resulted in a disappointing defeat.
A, I think we were able to fight patiently together. However, we tasted the frustration of not being able to take points from experienced teams like Yokohama FM if we do not pursue how to fight as a team, including not losing in one-on-one situations and players who come on as substitutes.
Q, Vissel Kobe this week is also a team with a very strong attacking power, but please tell us what you are conscious of in terms of defense leadership.
A. As I mentioned earlier, I think that both the team's overall defense and individual defensive abilities in certain situations are required, and I believe they are crucial in determining the outcome of the game. As a defensive player, the first thing to focus on is not giving the opponent any freedom and not losing. As for organized defense, I think as long as we understand the team's agreements and can play accordingly, there should be no problem.
Q, How does Morishige analyze Kobe's attacking power?
A, Kobe's strength is the attacking power of players Osako and Muto. I think the most important thing is to not give these two players, as well as the opposing attacking line, any freedom and to not lose in crucial moments.
Q, Is there anything that player Morishige himself is being asked for in terms of defense since Coach Klamski took office?
A, I don't intend to do anything particularly difficult, but I believe that by doing the basics of defense and keeping the team's promises, we can build a solid defense. By showing what needs to be done through our play and bringing out the strengths and characteristics of each player as an extra, I think we can become an even better team.
Q, this home game will be held at the Japan National Stadium, which is filled with many memories for player Morishige himself.
When looking back on the games at the Japan National Stadium, I only have good impressions. We lost 2-3 to Kobe in the first half of the league, so I think it's the perfect stage for revenge.
Yuto NAGATOMO player
Q, please tell us the factors that prevented us from winning against Yokohama F.Marinos and the feeling of the game.
It was a game where I felt the difference in maturity. In terms of build-up, positioning, and coordinated cover movements, there were small differences that I felt between Yokohama FM and Tokyo on the pitch. However, I don't feel like we lost due to the players' abilities and quality, and I think Tokyo has players who can compete for the championship like Yokohama FM. Looking back on the game calmly, in terms of chances created by both teams, Yokohama FM had more opportunities to shoot as a team rather than relying on individual abilities. Although we were able to create many chances, it was more noticeable that we relied on individual abilities to break through. Because of our "maturity," we were passed around like a body blow, which exhausted us.
Q, Is it important for the team to mature in order to improve their ranking?
A, I think it is very important. Each player has the ability to compete for the championship in the J1 League, with top-level players. I think it is necessary to refine the details in both offense and defense, work together, and improve decision-making skills.
Q, with each game, the performance of Nagatomo has been increasing.
A, I am able to practice by putting a load on my daily training. This is not only true for team training, but also for practicing to improve my strengths. In the past, I focused on recovery due to the hot and humid weather in the summer. Now, while still focusing on recovery, I have increased the number of trainings to improve my strengths. For example, there was a time when I focused too much on recovery because I wanted to recover from fatigue, but this led to my physical condition not improving due to my age. I believe that shifting the balance within myself towards increasing the intensity of my training has contributed to my current performance.
Q, this round we will be facing Vissel Kobe, where our comrades Osako and Muto are playing. Can you tell us about your determination for this match?
A, My own condition is also in good shape, so I am very excited to be able to play against Kobe's strong players such as Muto, Osako, and Sakai. I am looking forward to the match-up with them, and I want to bring victory to Tokyo in a fiercely competitive match that feels like watching a game overseas. In the first half of the league, it was a very frustrating match. The burning flame of passion in my heart is motivating me.
Q, Do you want to regain "Strong Tokyo" at the Japan National Stadium, where you have not lost so far?
At the Japan National Stadium, I feel a strong atmosphere that makes me feel like we can't lose, and my motivation also increases. It's very exciting to be able to play against Kobe, who is currently in good form, at the Japan National Stadium, and we want to approach this match with a strong determination to deliver a victory as we are playing at home.
