Taishi Brandon NOZAWA, Kuryu MATSUKI, and Ryotaro ARAKI have been selected as part of the U-23 Japan national team for the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qatar 2024, aiming for a ticket to the Paris Olympics and the title of Asian champions in their respective age group.
In the first group stage match on April 16 against China, Matsuki played, while in the second match against UAE on the 19th, Araki played. In the third match against South Korea on the 22nd, both Nozawa and Araki were named in the starting eleven. Additionally, on loan from Sagan Tosu, Seiji KIMURA made a substitute appearance in the match against China and started in the match against UAE. This time, we will deliver a journalist's column from on-site coverage, showcasing the efforts of the blue and red warriors in the group stage.
The number of spots available for the Paris Olympics in Asia is "3.5". To secure a ticket to the main tournament, it is necessary to finish in the top three at the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qatar 2024, or to win against Guinea in the intercontinental playoffs if finishing in fourth place.
The U-23 Japan national team led by coach Go OIWA faced China, UAE, and South Korea in the group stage. Despite facing tough opponents, Japan was forced to play a difficult game from the first match and had to defend their lead from Matsuki's goal to secure a victory against China. In the following match against UAE, they dominated both offensively and defensively to achieve a comfortable win. With two matches completed, they secured their spot in the final round. In the third match against South Korea, they faced each other with a significant change in players, but ultimately suffered a defeat from a set piece goal in the end. In the semifinal round, they will face the host country Qatar.
Taishi Brandon NOZAWA
After the start of the tournament, I didn't get many chances to play. However, Brian Reo Kikubo, who started two consecutive games, said, "I was preparing to be ready to play whenever I was called upon, while supporting the team in my own way." He focused on training and made final adjustments, actively speaking to those around him before and after the game and during halftime. This was all because of his strong desire to contribute to the team's victory. Even without a chance to step onto the pitch, he thought about what he could do and took action.
He got his chance in the third game against South Korea. "It's a tournament where everyone's strength is needed, so we will unite and win against South Korea. I was conscious of that and stood on the pitch." If we show stable build-up from the beginning of the game, we can also respond to the opponent's breakthroughs and set pieces. Although we conceded a goal from a set piece, he showed a great performance by quickly reacting and making a brilliant save in a pinch, controlling the key moments.
The match against South Korea was undoubtedly a frustrating one. However, the blue and red goalkeeper is already moving forward towards the next opportunity.
Kuryu MATSUKI
One of the biggest highlights of the group stage was undoubtedly the team's first goal scored in the 8th minute of the match against China. Fuki YAMADA crossed the ball with his left foot from the right side, and it was skillfully pushed into the goal with a left-footed inside volley.
"Koki-kun was able to get in between at the timing of the cut-in, and a good ball came, so I was able to calmly put it in while looking at the goalkeeper. We had practiced that shape, and in fact, I had a good feeling about shooting from crosses in training. I think it was good that it went in."
The first match against China was a struggle not only for goals. Despite being at a numerical disadvantage due to an early red card, they changed positions from inside half to defensive midfielder and responded with strong defensive play. They showed quick reactions in recovering second balls and shut down the opponent's chances. Even in a difficult situation, they showcased their performance and demonstrated their strong mentality.
In the UAE and South Korea matches, he started on the bench, but he showed his presence even as a substitute. He calmly touched the ball and created a rhythm, attempting to make chances multiple times. Although there was one more result he wanted, he should show it in the final tournament from here.
Ryotaro ARAKI
After seeing my teammate Kuryu MATSUKI score a goal in the first match against China, I felt a burning passion within me.
"I was happy with Kuse's goal and thought I couldn't lose either."
He was named in the starting lineup for the UAE match and actively aimed for the goal while getting involved with the ball from the beginning. In the 20th minute of the first half, he received the ball in a deep position on the left side and skillfully took a shot while moving towards the center. Although it was blocked by the bar, it was a scene that showed his determination to score.
He also played a role as a link between the front line and the final line in other situations, and demonstrated his own strengths by dribbling. "I was able to get involved with the ball and create chances. I think I was able to calm the team down and develop attacks while watching the game. The only thing left is to score. I want to improve my scoring ability in the next game," he looked back on the game with a sense of accomplishment.
Araki started in the following match against South Korea. Although the team suffered a defeat, he fought alone to change the flow of the game by dropping back to receive the ball and showing his driving force forward. In the second half, he even came close to scoring with a middle shot, showing his presence despite the team's loss. His form is not bad, so we can expect even more from him in future matches.
Seiji KIMURA
He was forced to withdraw due to an injury before the start of this season, and had just returned to the pitch in March. Despite that, Coach Oiwa trusted him and called him up for an important tournament.
The chance came in the 22nd minute of the first half of the China match. Ryuya NISHIO was given a red card, leaving the center back position vacant and giving him a sudden opportunity to play. "I was a little nervous and anxious because I would be less prepared if I had to substitute, but I would be more unprepared if I didn't prepare at all." Despite this, Kimura showed a stable performance. He countered the opponent's tall forward with his height and tightened the team's defense by putting his body on the line at crucial moments.
In the second match against UAE, Rihito YAMAMOTO made his first start and scored his first goal in a national team match since the start of the Paris Olympics generation in the 27th minute of the first half. He skillfully headed Rihito YAMAMOTO's cross and twisted it into the goal, hitting the left post.
"I really thought it was unlikely for me to be chosen, so I am very grateful to have been chosen. Not only am I grateful, but I also have the desire to repay the favor with results. I wanted to express my gratitude through my performance, so I am very happy to have scored one point and achieved results."
Kimura, who has contributed to two consecutive clean sheets, said, "I am really happy to be able to come back to the national team again, as I had a strong feeling of regret. The man who looks forward is leading the team's defense, seeking even more results."
Only two more wins until securing a ticket to the Paris Olympics. The minimum requirement is to advance through the next quarterfinal round. The highly anticipated match against host country Qatar will kick off at 23:00 on April 25th (Thursday) Japan time. Keep an eye on the blue and red warriors as they fight for the world while wearing the Japanese flag on their backs.
text by Hayashi Ryohei (football journalist)
photo by Arai Kenichi
