Match Preview
Three days before the first match of the Levain Cup Prime Stage Quarterfinal Round, Tokyo revealed its poor record by losing to Avispa Fukuoka in the league, resulting in a total of 3 wins, 3 draws, and 8 losses. In the Levain Cup as well, before the first match, Tokyo had a record of 1 win, 3 draws, and 2 losses against Fukuoka, indicating a losing record.
In the first match held at home at Ajinomoto Stadium on the 6th, they broke that jinx and won 1-0, bringing their record in the Levain Cup to 2 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses, which is an even performance. Considering that they had not won a single match in the 8 games since Fukuoka was promoted in the 2021 season, this can be seen as a significant advancement for Tokyo.
In the first match in Tokyo, a system change was made to structure the defense line with three players, reflecting on the previous league match. This created an advantage on the sides and successfully neutralized Fukuoka's vertical pressure in both defense and attack. In defense, space was eliminated, including the wing-backs, thoroughly addressing the opponent's quick counterattacks, while in attack, the press was evaded, allowing for smooth build-up play.
Adailton's opening goal gave us the lead, but in the second half, we faced the opponent's momentum head-on. However, we recognized the importance of victory in the tournament and prioritized a realistic approach by first solidifying our defense, which yielded results. In this tournament, where the total score of two matches is contested, the outcome of the first match is expected to have a significant impact on the second match.
How will Tokyo make use of the advantage gained from their first victory? The important thing is to assess Fukuoka's approach.
This is the second match played at home for Fukuoka. If they come forward with the home advantage, Tokyo will need to effectively utilize the space behind them. On the other hand, if they aim for a solid match and try to leverage their tall foreign players for power play, they will need to crush the distribution points to the front line with high pressing and implement proactive defense to keep the opposing forwards away from the goal through control of the defensive line.
Tokyo, having broken the jinx against Fukuoka, will bring back the ticket to the Semifinal Round for the first time in three tournaments, aiming for the Levain Cup title.
[Interview with Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI]
Q: With a short preparation period, you changed your formation in the previous match against Avispa Fukuoka and achieved victory.
The players were making very good movements as a team to perform well. It was a match where we saw many elements worthy of victory. It is important to evolve what was good and improve. We controlled the match in the first half. We had the momentum, and within that, there were good movements and coordinated plays that led to the opening goal. In the second half, I think we were able to control the match from a different perspective than in the first half. One point that needs improvement is to express the same fighting style in the second half as we did in the first. If we can improve on that point, I believe we could have scored additional goals in the second half. The team also had good defense, and I think it was great that we were able to finish the match without conceding a goal. After the first match, we are in what you might call a halftime situation. We just need to fight to seize victory in the second match in Fukuoka.
Q: I believe that the addition of formation options has increased the tactical choices.
A, it was a good challenge for us, and the players executed it well. I want us to grow into a team that can do various things depending on the situation. We are taking good steps, but there are many areas we need to improve. I want to address the challenges while moving in the right direction as a team. The choice made in the recent Fukuoka match was based on the perspective of what is most important and how to bring out the best. I believe it was the right choice.
Q: Please tell us about the challenges the team faced when approaching the match with a three-back formation.
A, considering our current situation, I thought that approaching the match with a three-back formation was the best choice. Additionally, with only two days between matches and taking into account the players' conditions, it was a decision made for the players to perform at their best and to take control in both offense and defense, as a way for the team to evolve. I believe it is important to challenge ourselves in various ways to continue evolving from here.
[Player Interview]
＜Naoki KUMATA＞
Q, please tell us if you have any insights or feelings gained from the Semifinal Round match 1.
I started the match, but I couldn't do anything as an individual, and I feel there is still a lot I need to work on. My passing mistakes stood out during the attack as a challenge for me. However, I believe there is significance in being able to play for nearly 90 minutes. I want to work hard to be able to participate in the upcoming matches. Regardless of the form, it's important for a forward to be a player who can score, and I think it’s just a matter of building up from practice. If I don't show it in practice, I believe my teammates won't provide the final pass during the match, so I want to focus on the results.
Q: In the last match, you were in a two-top formation with Adailton. What were you conscious of?
A, personally, I have played as one of the two forwards many times, so it was easier for me. In defense, the two forwards can apply pressure on the ball, and in attack, if the two forwards can coordinate well, we can complete the attack. It is important how the two forwards are involved in both defense and attack, but I believe we can show a different strength compared to a single forward.
Q: There were many instances of high-intensity defense, not just attacks.
A, I believe we need to further elevate our game from here. I want to enhance the quality of our attack as a forward, not just focus on defense. 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: The team's away game winning percentage in Kyushu is not good. Please tell us what is necessary to break the current situation.
A, I know that we haven't won any away games in Kyushu. Regarding that, I believe it's important for us as a team, not just me, to secure victories. We will fight for the team and for victory.
<Ryoma WATANABE>
Q: In the league matches and the Levain Cup, you will face Avispa Fukuoka in three consecutive games. What do you see as the opponent's characteristics and style of play?
I felt that there were mismatches in the league match on the 3rd. On the pitch, it seemed like the gaps were being exploited well to receive the ball, but when I reviewed the footage later, that wasn't the case. I sensed a misalignment in defensive positioning and an atmosphere of starting with defense. If we can maintain an aggressive stance like in the match on the 6th and effectively capture the opponent, I believe a good flow will naturally emerge, and our play will improve.
Q、In the first match of the Levain Cup, you came on as a substitute in the midfield position. There must have been many tasks on both the offensive and defensive sides, right?
Of course, there was an instruction from Coach Klamovski to "score additional points," but when considering the connection to Sec. 2, I thought it was essential not to create gaps in defense. In the previous match, I was particularly focused on properly recovering second balls. I don't know if I'll start in the second match or come on as a substitute, but I want to continue this awareness.
Q: It seems that playing in the attacking midfielder or central position has further highlighted Watanabe's characteristics.
I believe that having options in all 360 degrees allows me to showcase my strengths. I think it's a position where many positive aspects can be expressed.
Q, With the advantage of having won the first match, how do you want to proceed with the game?
I believe that regardless of finishing the first match 1-0, we should fight as a team offensively. If we show even a slight defensive mindset, I think the risk of conceding goals will increase as we will be vulnerable to the opponent's attacks. I want to show plays where we aggressively go for goals, taking shots in the first play. Personally, I am not concerned about not having won against Fukuoka away so far, and I feel that after winning the first match, we can approach the second match with a good sense as a team. I want to cherish that good feeling and inspiration.
