Review of the previous match against Verdy
At the end of the first half, we are two goals behind. Furthermore, we faced a difficult situation by having a player sent off just before the end of the first half, putting us at a numerical disadvantage.
However, the blue-red warriors fighting on the pitch and the fans and supporters filling the "away" goal area at Ajinomoto never gave up. Despite being at a disadvantage, even as they entered halftime and welcomed the second half kickoff, the voltage in the stands continued to rise.
Furthermore, there was another man sitting on the Tokyo bench, burning with fighting spirit. Just two days before this crucial match, the complete transfer to the blue and red was announced for Keita ENDO.
"I could feel the energy of the support from the bench, and I couldn't let the fans and supporters leave like that. (When the opponent scored their second goal) they performed in a way that provoked the Tokyo supporters, and that switched something in me. I thought, when I get in, I'll show it through my play."
In the 16th minute of the second half, the number 22 player was brought in to the left wing position. My situation strongly connects with the desire to produce results in a difficult match. For him, who was burning with fighting spirit, it was truly a determined entry onto the pitch.
"Until now, we hadn't achieved results, but I thought that if we could secure one in this important match, we would be recognized. I felt that the timing of the announcement of my full transfer was an opportunity."
That feeling will bear fruit soon.
In the 23rd minute of the second half, Kosuke SHIRAI made a sharp interception in his own half and sprinted down the right side. He advanced to a high position and delivered a ground cross, which was pushed in by number 22 running into the center, finally signaling Tokyo's counterattack.
A battle that does not feel outnumbered. As the players said after the match, "The support from the fans and supporters pushed us forward," it truly is the "12th player" that uplifts the team and changes the atmosphere of the stadium.
And a dramatic turn of events awaited in the second half's additional time.
Go HATANO's long feed was contested by Henrique TREVISAN near the opponent's penalty area, and the loose ball was collected by Teruhito NAKAGAWA. Receiving a gentle sideways pass, Endo stated, "I had decided to take a shot as soon as I received the pass. The ball flew to a good spot," and he shook the goal net with a precise left-footed shot.
Amidst the fallen green uniforms on the pitch, the blue and red supporters erupted in joy, bouncing back from adversity. At the center was the number 22, who had just decided to make a full transfer.
On the way back to the pitch, I looked back at the goal stand while gripping the emblem on my left chest with my right hand. There was a strong awareness of the results and his own sense of respect embedded in that gesture.
"I was really frustrated. I felt that I couldn't go home after losing 0-2, and I wanted to show that I made a complete transfer to Tokyo and that I could demonstrate my worth in such an important match. I also wanted to convey my feelings of 'thank you for your support' once again. The fact that we played with all our might as a team is everything, and it was good that we were able to catch up because of that. Personally, I think I was able to fulfill my duties and responsibilities as a player in the match against Verdy."
Finally, I have officially become a member of the "Blue and Red," but of course, I cannot peak here. The true value of experience in winning and competitiveness will be demonstrated from this point onward.
"I want to work hard to be truly recognized. Top players can continue to perform well. I want to train every day to maintain this."
Two goals scored out of sheer determination in an overwhelmingly disadvantageous situation. Unfortunately, we could not achieve victory, but the point earned by the 'team,' including fans and supporters coming together, will undoubtedly be remembered. The resolve and feelings held by the key player may also become a story that is passed down.
Match Preview
At the Japan National Stadium, Urawa Reds defeated Kashima Antlers in succession, and Verdy, who faced them in J1 for the first time in 16 seasons, overcame a numerical disadvantage to equalize from a 2-goal deficit. Furthermore, in the YBC Levain Cup 2nd Round, they defeated Y.S.C.C. Yokohama 4-0, maintaining an unbeaten streak in official matches for four games and gaining momentum.
In the absence of Kuryu MATSUKI, Ryotaro ARAKI, and Taishi Brandon NOZAWA, who are participating in the U-23 Japan national team, Riki HARAKAWA and Keita ENDO have been improving their form, demonstrating strength that makes the absence of key players feel negligible. They are getting closer to the ideal vision of "playing our football no matter who is on the field" as advocated by coach Peter Cramofsky.
One player to watch is Kashif BANGNAGANDE, who was not called up to the U-23 Japan national team. He faces his own growth with a humble attitude, saying, "I will just give my all in the place I am in," and has made his presence felt in the league with 1 goal and 2 assists so far. This season, he has begun to express his awareness as a key player, stating, "I want to become the center of the team."
This match welcomes FC Machida Zelvia to Ajinomoto. Despite being newcomers to the J1 League, they are currently in 3rd place and in good form. How much can Tokyo showcase the results they have built up? This match should serve as a touchstone for advancing to the top ranks.
This matchday program is here
[Interview with Coach Peter CKLAMOVSKI]
Q: I believe that the goal set by Coach Klamovski, which is to have a team where anyone can participate, is gradually being realized.
In the match against Y.S.C.C. Yokohama on Wednesday, the players showed a good performance on the pitch, and we saw positive signs as we continue to build. What is important is that regardless of who plays, they deliver a strong performance in the match and give their all. From here, I want to continue to encourage the players' mentality to grow. It is important to find our value and move forward. As a club, I want us to take one step at a time to the next page.
Q: FC Machida Zelvia may confront the opposing team with play that diminishes their strengths.
A, this weekend is another important match. We are able to build good training every day. I always respect the clubs we compete against. The important thing is to prepare ourselves in the best way for any opponent we face. Extending our time on the ball and controlling the match, as well as being proactive, will lead to better team performance. A tough match is expected. We will focus on our way of fighting and give it our all.
Isn't it true that winning against a tough opponent like Machida is essential to move on to the "next page"?
For the growth of the team, it is important to firmly establish the process. Regardless of the opponent or style, we will not make any significant changes. The challenges and requirements may differ from match to match, but I believe that by focusing on the team's principles and fighting style, we can overcome any opponent.
[Player Interview]
<Kashif BANGNAGANDE>
Q: Including the National's two consecutive wins, we have not lost in four official matches.
I believe that our strength in ball contests and running ability, including the match against Y.S.C.C. Yokohama on Wednesday, are key factors in our good form. It may seem simple, but because the quality of each player has improved at the base level, we feel we can express our style of football better. In the match against Verdy, the team started off solidly, but we found ourselves in a situation where we had to fight with 10 players from midway through the first half. However, the players on the pitch were able to return to the fundamentals of football and play well. I think we outperformed the opponent in terms of work rate and sprint counts, and the players who came on from the bench were able to deliver results, allowing the team to demonstrate a good shape in our play.
Q: Three players have left the club for the U-23 Japan national team activities. What factors have contributed to the team maintaining an unbeaten record?
I think it's the atmosphere and intensity of the practice. The good tension and intensity close to actual matches that each player can express naturally raises the quality of practice. No player is guaranteed a starting position, and the quality of practice is directly reflected in the matches. In the match against Urawa Reds on April 3, many young players were used in the starting lineup, and we were able to secure a solid victory. One of the factors is that veteran players like Yuto NAGATOMO and Masato MORISHIGE are encouraging an atmosphere where young players can play intensely from practice.
Q. It seems that with the support of that atmosphere, player Yoshifumi is also increasing his involvement in scoring plays.
I have a strong desire to contribute to the team with visible numbers such as goals and assists. It was difficult to translate that into results in the first few matches of the season, but I believed in what I have been building up and made it a point to play with consistency from practice. Compared to last season, I feel that the number of times I am involved with the ball in higher positions has increased, and I have been reflecting on each match with the coaching staff. This season, I have set a goal to increase the plays that lead to scoring.
Q: Compared to previous seasons, the frequency of attacking participation and offensive positioning is outstanding.
A, I often form a vertical relationship with players like Keita ENDO and Kota TAWARATSUMIDA, both of whom are high-quality players. Their playing styles are completely different, but I am conscious of participating in attacks and positioning while understanding their movements. On the pitch, especially Takahiro KO supports my movements in various ways. He gives me detailed advice on where to receive the ball, where I should move, and sometimes it's better to stop and receive the ball, which is necessary for building attacks. I am able to organize and absorb the opinions of players, coaches, and the coaching staff, and I feel that my own uncertainties in my play are diminishing.
Q: This match is against FC Machida Zelvia. A matchup with Junya SUZUKI is also expected.
A, Machida is a team that gives the impression of suppressing the opponent's strengths while showcasing their own strong points. I feel a strong work ethic and high quality in their foundational aspects. First and foremost, surpassing the opponent in these areas is an absolute requirement, and if we are losing in that regard, no play or tactic will be effective. I believe it is crucial not to lose in the intensity of ball contests and hard work. I am also looking forward to the matchup with Suzuki. His kicking accuracy is high, and when he was in Tokyo, he taught me points and tips. Looking at domestic full-backs, his kicking accuracy is among the best in the J-League. Suzuki's kicks and long throws are undoubtedly Machida's weapons, and he is an opponent I definitely do not want to lose to. I hope to effectively attack the flanks in combination with my teammates.
<Keita ENDO>
Q: How do you feel about scoring in consecutive official matches?
A, it is good that we are accumulating goals in any form. I want to create a strong team that can deliver results on the pitch, no matter who is on the field. We need players who can score when the team is struggling. I believe that nothing surpasses a goal, no matter how good the play is.
Q: You mentioned before that "it is important to swing your legs." What are your thoughts on that?
A, I am currently feeling good while handling the ball, and I can play calmly in front of the goal. I hope to continue expressing this on the pitch in the upcoming match against FC Machida Zelvia.
Q: This match is against Machida, who are in 3rd place. Considering Machida's characteristics, what kind of match do you expect it to be?
If we aim for the league championship, this is definitely a team we must beat. It's not a 6-point game, but it holds that much value. I believe the players on the pitch need to approach this match with a strong determination as it is a very important game. Currently, the fact that Machida is accumulating points means they are a team that is thoroughly committed to a winning style of play. Winning is everything. I truly believe Machida is a strong team, and I think they will choose plays that Tokyo dislikes. Duels and ball contests will be crucial, and first and foremost, we need to avoid losing in those situations and exploit plays and weaknesses that both we and our opponents dislike.
<Kei KOIZUMI>
Q: I believe the team has been able to embody a tenacity that does not allow us to lose in recent official matches.
A, last season, when we conceded the first goal, we often lost control of the match. This season, as seen in the match against Urawa Reds in Sec. 6, we have been able to come from behind, and like in the match against Verdy, we have shown resilience. Although only 8 matches have been played in the league, we are tied for first in total goals scored as a team, and I want to deepen our confidence in our attacking play. On the other hand, we have conceded too many goals, so I want to make sure we improve on that.
Q: Please tell us the factors that have contributed to the growth of the mentality to catch up and turn the game around, despite not having significantly changed the members since last season.
A, while nothing has drastically changed between the team and the players, we are consciously ensuring that we secure a solid amount of time holding the ball compared to last season. I believe one of the factors is that we have a common awareness as a team and as players.
Q, it seems that Kei KOIZUMI himself has increased his participation in attacks and the number of times he builds up play compared to last season.
This season, I have become more conscious not only of defensive movements and build-up play but also of my involvement in visible goals and assists. When the holding midfielder contributes to the attack with goals and assists, the team's ranking improves, and the attack becomes more robust. Personal growth is essential for strengthening the team, and I want to play with a constant attitude of challenge.
