<Review of the previous match against Avispa Fukuoka>
The long-awaited first victory in the league. The blue-red army that ventured into the away ground of Fukuoka scored 3 goals and defeated Avispa Fukuoka.
Truly a gathering of "actors". At the center of it were the men who were called up to the Japan national team.
The one who first ignited the goal rush was Yuto NAGATOMO, who made his return to the Japan national team since the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
In the 28th minute of the first half, Kashif BANGNAGANDE broke free from a hold by Keita ENDO and delivered a low cross from the left side. The ball from the U-23 Japan national team was received by Nagatomo in the center of the penalty area, who sharply struck with his right foot from the trap, beautifully shaking the goal net. This was his first goal in the J-League in 5054 days. With this strike celebrating his return to the national team, Tokyo took the lead.
In the 32nd minute of the first half, Ryotaro ARAKI, who was called up to the U-23 Japan national team due to his performance in Tokyo, scored an additional goal with outstanding finishing ability. Kuryu MATSUKI, also selected for the U-23 Japan national team, provided a feed that was once again kept by Endo at the front line. At this point, Ryotaro ARAKI, who made a run up from the right, received the pass and slotted it into the far side netting with his right foot from a difficult angle.
With this, Araki has scored in all four league matches. Additionally, for both players, Nagatomo and Araki, who are from Higashi Fukuoka High School, it became a shining result in a place filled with memories from their youth.
And in the 12th minute of the second half, the blue-red warriors of the Hinomaru delivered results. A cross from player Nagatomo, who overlapped on the right side, flowed to the far side, where player Yoshifumi, running in from behind, unleashed a powerful shot with his left foot directly. The well-placed strike pierced the goal.
It was a development that truly turned the tide with the opening goal and switched the sides. The team successfully expanded their lead to three points with a goal from the fullback following a setup by the fullback.
Although we conceded a goal in the final moments, we won the match 3-1. It was a significant achievement that Takahiro KO, making his first start, functioned as a key player in the attack. With the outstanding performance of the national team members, Tokyo secured their first three points of the season with a wonderful display.
Match Preview
With their first victory of the season in the away match against Avispa Fukuoka, Tokyo's league record stands at 1 win, 2 draws, and 1 loss. Although there was a break due to the international match week, this match is crucial for them to aim for a higher ranking, and they must secure consecutive wins at all costs.
The representatives from each age group of the Japan national team have returned to the team with high motivation. After each match, the players who fought wearing the Rising Sun flag all expressed, "I want to achieve results and grow with my team." Additionally, coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI mentioned, "The energy of fighting on behalf of the country becomes the players' strength. They have returned in good condition," indicating that everyone seems ready to don the blue and red uniform in a fulfilling state both physically and mentally.
Additionally, Diego OLIVEIRA, who missed the last match, has joined the team. With a solid roster, they will come together to face an important game.
The crucial match that will determine the future takes place in the away ground of Kawasaki. Yes, it's the Tamagawa Classico.
Kawasaki Frontale is currently in a difficult situation with three consecutive losses in the league. Furthermore, MARCINHO, who was involved in key chances from breakthroughs on the left side, will be suspended for this match. However, it is not hard to imagine that a team with a strong desire to win, having won numerous titles in recent years, will approach the match with even higher motivation as they aim for their first home victory.
What to watch out for in Kawasaki is the newly joined player, Erik. He has the nickname "Bullfighter" and is a striker with breakthrough power like a heavy tank and a powerful left-footed kick. He has already made his presence felt as the ace by scoring in four consecutive official matches starting from the FUJIFILM SUPER CUP 2024 before the season opener. Although he missed the last two matches before the break, he is expected to return for the Tamagawa Classico. Tokyo will need to be on high alert in front of the goal.
The rivalry match across the Tamagawa River is a game that both teams need to win. A fierce battle is inevitable. We want to dominate the ball contests, which will likely be more intense than usual, and strongly express our desire for victory. For Tokyo, this is the first match of a three-game series following next week's National back-to-back games. To gain momentum for the future, this will be an important game where we aim for victory in every match.
[Player Interview]
<Teruhito NAKAGAWA × Yasuto WAKIZAKA Special Discussion>
The two, who have many similarities, are set to face each other as rivals in the Tamagawa Classico on Saturday, March 30.
Teruhito NAKAGAWA Indeed, it will be exciting. The 30th is an away game for us, but I hope Uvance and Todoroki Stadium by Fujitsu will be packed. The atmosphere and the pitch conditions at the venue are excellent, so I want to deliver an interesting match to everyone. I'm looking forward to it.
Yasuto WAKIZAKA There have been many matches in the past that have shown the fans of both clubs and J.League fans what a "Tamagawa Classico" match is all about. We need to show plays worthy of the best games that do not lose to previous games. Since this is our home, we want to take action without being on the defensive.
──Please tell us your impressions of each other's teams.
Wakisaka Speaking of timely topics, it is impressive that Yuto NAGATOMO has been selected for the Japan national team, and that four players have been chosen for the U-23 Japan national team. The young players are also full of energy, and there is a strong impression that we have high-caliber players who can focus on each individual. Ryotaro ARAKI has joined on loan from Kashima Antlers this season and has been delivering solid results, so I think it’s a club that can attract attention in various areas.
Nakagawa Kawasaki Frontale has the strength as a team even when key players leave due to transfers. Despite the fact that key players often transfer overseas every season, the team gives the impression of having high foundational abilities and resilience.
Wakisaka is currently in a tough time with three consecutive losses in the league.
Nakagawa Recently, we had no victories in the first three matches since the opening, and we finally won in Sec. 4 against Avispa Fukuoka.
Wakisaka Both teams are still struggling to find their rhythm, so I believe there is a strong desire to use the Tamagawa Classico as a turning point. In that sense, this match is extremely important.
As mentioned by player Wakizaka, I believe this will be an important match for both clubs to determine their future this season.
Nakagawa In the last match against Fukuoka, we were able to achieve victory in Fukuoka for the first time in 24 seasons as a club. It was a victory after a long period of not being able to win against Fukuoka.
Wakisaka Speaking of which, we lost to Kashima Antlers for the first time in 9 seasons. With a longer preparation period than usual before the Tamagawa Classico, I believe this time is very significant for us as we approach the match.
Nakagawa To be honest, we actually wanted to approach the matches without a one-week break.
Wakisaka I think these two weeks are important, and considering the consecutive matches in April, I believe this will be a very important game. While the next match can be considered just one game in this season's league, I see it as significant for giving the team momentum moving forward.
Nakagawa We want to continue the momentum from our victory over Fukuoka. The content of the match was satisfactory, and although there is a one-week break, it is important how we show our football. Whether we can play our style in such a match is related to our goal of winning the "J1 League Championship." It is not an exaggeration to say that this is a crucial match. The Tamagawa Classico is packed with various elements.
──Once again, considering the situation of both teams, please tell us the key points of the match.
Nakagawa I think the foundation of the soccer we both aim for is possession. However, it is difficult to win against Kawasaki with possession alone. Our style is about how we can maintain the ball while executing quick vertical attacks. Also, since we haven't had a match without conceding a goal this season, I believe the key is how we can score while reducing the risk of conceding. This is the most important challenge for us right now and a step towards victory.
Wakisaka I think we have issues in front of the goal in both offense and defense. That said, it's not that our defense is poor; rather, it's about positioning and risk management during attacks. Offense and defense are always linked, so it's important to fully commit to the attack and to be as tenacious as possible in defense. I want to make sure we address this during the break.
I believe it is not an exaggeration to say that the Tamagawa Classico is a match where both sides stake their pride. How do you both feel about the current intensity and emotions heading into the match?
Wakisaka It's a traditional match. It will be important in many ways, and I can feel the passion of the fans and supporters as well as the history that has come before.
Nakagawa This is my second season since joining Tokyo, but I can feel the excitement of the Tamagawa Classico and the passion of both clubs. I want to involve everyone and create a great match.
Wakisaka Last season's event at the Japan National Stadium was amazing, wasn't it? The fireworks and performances were great.
Nakagawa It was quite an amazing production, and I could feel the effort put into it. I want it to be a match where not only the players from both clubs are fighting, but also the clubs and the people involved get passionate about it, and that's the kind of image I personally have.
Wakisaka Recently, we have been having the "Tamagawa Classico" before matches, right? It didn't exist when we were kids, but of course, we players are aware of it. I have a strong desire to make it a game where the name "Tamagawa Classico" doesn't just walk on its own. Also, as a player from the academy, I want to make sure that Nakagawa doesn't score. While we haven't achieved the results we both desire yet, I want it to be a match that everyone can look back on and think, "The Tamagawa Classico helped us improve" when the season is over.
Nakagawa As I mentioned earlier, we were able to secure a victory in the league match against Fukuoka, and I believe we are starting to see good signs. In terms of how much we can express that against Kawasaki, I want to play the match soon.
[Interview with Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI]
Q: This round is the Tamagawa Classico against Kawasaki Frontale.
It's a special match, and we want to showcase our football. We want to fight in a way that excites our fans and supporters, making them proud of the Tokyo club. We aim to actively target the areas that the opponent dislikes. Although there haven't been any official matches for about two weeks, we have been preparing thoroughly, and both the team and the players have been able to continue growing.
Q: How do you see Kawasaki this season?
A, I have also come to Japan and faced various teams, but I believe Kawasaki is one of the teams that has achieved success. They have grown their football every season and have won the top spot. This is a result of their belief in their football and their unwavering commitment. Against such a team, we want to firmly challenge ourselves while developing our own football.
Q: Please tell us if there are any key points that determine the outcome.
First, we need to show our play. In attack, we want to express the way we are currently moving the ball and exploit the opponent's weaknesses by moving the ball effectively. If we can play our game and make the opponent fearful, we can bravely express our football, which will lead to scoring. In defense, it is important to diligently execute our set rules.
Q: You will be entering a series of consecutive matches. What mindset will you approach them with?
A, preparation is important, and it is essential to look at each match individually. All players are ready to participate. We want to express our football regardless of who plays, and the competition within the team is fierce, with each player's energy palpable. First, I want to focus on the match against Kawasaki.
