<Match Preview>
Three days before the first match of the Levain Cup Prime Stage quarterfinals, Tokyo revealed their poor compatibility with Avispa Fukuoka, having lost to them in the league with a record of 3 wins, 3 draws, and 8 losses. In the Levain Cup, they were also in a losing position against Fukuoka with a record of 1 win, 3 draws, and 2 losses before the first match.
In the first match played at home at Ajinomoto Stadium on the 6th, they broke the jinx and won 1-0, bringing their record in the Levain Cup to an even 2 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses. Considering that Fukuoka had not been able to win a single game in the 8 matches since their promotion to the 2021 season, this can be seen as a big step forward for Tokyo.
In the first match in Tokyo, we looked back on the previous league match and made a system change to have a defense line of three people. This allowed us to create an advantage on the sides and successfully eliminate Fukuoka's vertical pressure in both offense and defense. In defense, we also closed the spaces, including the wing backs, and thoroughly took care of the opponent's quick attacks. In offense, we were able to prevent the press and smoothly build up our plays.
After taking the lead with Adailton's goal, there were moments in the second half where we directly faced the opponent's momentum, but we recognized the importance of winning in the tournament and prioritized a realistic battle of first organizing our defense, resulting in a victory. In this tournament where the score is determined by the total of two matches, it can be expected that the result of the first match will have a significant impact on the second match.
How will Tokyo take advantage of their early lead? The key will be to carefully assess Fukuoka's approach.
For Fukuoka, it is the second game to play at home. If they come out with the home advantage and push forward, Tokyo will need to make good use of the space behind them. On the other hand, if they try to bring the game to a solid one and utilize tall foreign players in power plays, they will need to use a high press to shut down the passing points to the front line and play an aggressive defense that controls the defensive line to keep the opponent's forward line away from the goal.
Tokyo, who broke the jinx against Fukuoka and is aiming for their first Levain Cup victory in 3 tournaments, will bring back a ticket to the semifinal from Fukuoka.
[Interview with Peter Cklamovski]
Q, we changed our lineup in the previous match against Avispa Fukuoka with a short preparation period and achieved victory.
A, The players made very good movements as a team to perform well. It was a game with many plays worthy of victory and good elements. It is important to evolve and improve what was good. In the first half, we controlled the game. We had momentum and there were good movements and coordinated plays, which led to the opening goal. In the second half, I think we were able to control the game from a different perspective. As a point that needs improvement, we need to express the same way of fighting as in the first half in the second half. If we can improve on that point, I think we could have scored additional goals in the second half. There was also good defense as a team, and I think it was good that we were able to finish the game without conceding any goals. After the first game, we are in a halftime situation, so to speak. In the second game, we just have to fight to grab a victory in Fukuoka.
Q, I think the addition of formation options has increased the tactical choices.
A, it was a good challenge for us and the players carried it out well. We want to continue growing as a team that can do various things depending on the situation. We have taken a good step, but there are many areas that we need to improve. We want to improve our challenges while moving in the right direction as a team. The choice we made in the recent Fukuoka game was based on what is most important and how to bring out the maximum potential. I think it was the right choice.
Q, Please tell us if there were any challenges that the team faced when approaching the game with a 3-back formation.
A, when considering our current situation, I thought that playing with a 3-back formation would be the best choice. And, considering that we have a game in 2 days and the condition of our players, it was a choice to evolve as a team in order for our players to play in their best condition and to take control in both offense and defense. I think it is important to continue challenging ourselves in order to further evolve from here.
[Player Interview]
Naoki KUMATA
Q, Please share any insights or realizations you gained from the first match of the quarterfinals.
I played from the start, but I couldn't do anything as an individual and I felt that there were still many things I needed to do. As a challenge, my own passing mistakes stood out during attacks. However, I think it means something that I was able to play for almost 90 minutes. I want to do my best to be able to play in the upcoming matches. No matter what form it takes, it is important for a forward to be able to score, and I think it's just a matter of building up from practice. If I don't show it in practice, I don't think my teammates will give me the final pass during the game, so I want to focus on the results.
Q, in the previous match, we played with Adailton as a two-top. What were you conscious of?
A, Personally, I have played as one of the two top players many times, so it was easy for me. When defending, we can defend against the ball with the two players in the front line, and when attacking, if we can cooperate well with the two players in the front line, we can also complete the attack. It is important how the two top players are involved in both offense and defense, but I think we can show a different strength from playing as a lone top player.
Q, not only attacking but also a lot of high-intensity defense was seen.
A, I think we need to raise the level even further from here. Not only in defense, but also as a forward, I want to improve the quality of our attacks. I want to increase the number of times I touch the ball in front of the goal and be conscious of showcasing my strengths.
Q, Our team has a poor winning rate in away games in Kyushu. Please tell us what we need to do to break this current situation.
A, I know that we haven't been able to win away games in Kyushu. Regarding that, I think it's important for not just me, but the team as a whole to win solidly. I'm just fighting for the team, for victory.
Ryoma WATANABE
Q, league match, Levain Cup, and 3 games continuously facing Avispa Fukuoka, what do you see as their strengths and style of play?
On the 3rd day of the league, I felt like there were mismatches happening. On the pitch, it seemed like the gaps were being used well and the ball was being received, but when I watched the footage later, it didn't seem like that at all. I felt a sense of misalignment in our defensive positioning and the need to focus on defense first. If we can maintain an attacking attitude and solidly catch our opponents like we did on the 6th day, I believe that a good flow will naturally emerge and our play will improve.
Q, In the first match of the Levain Cup, I came on as a substitute in the midfield position. I imagine there were many tasks to be done on both offense and defense.
Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI gave us the instruction to "score more goals", but when thinking about connecting to the second game, I believed that it was crucial to not leave any gaps in our defense. In the previous match, we were particularly focused on recovering second balls. I don't know if I will start in the second game or come on as a substitute, but I want to continue with this mindset.
Q, It seemed that the characteristics of Mr. Watanabe were further alive by playing in the top or midfield position.
A, I think I can demonstrate my strengths when there are options in 360 degrees. I believe it is a position where I can show many positive aspects.
Q, What is your strategy for the game, given that you have an advantage from winning the first match?
Regardless of the result of the first game, I believe we should play as an attacking team. If we have even a little defensive mindset, the risk of conceding goals from the opponent's attack increases. We want to go for goals and take shots in the first play. Personally, I am not concerned about not being able to win in the away game against Fukuoka, and I think we can approach the second game with a good feeling after winning the first game. We want to value good feelings and inspiration.
