A soccer player I admire.
Even now, standing on the same stage as a professional soccer player, the feelings of my childhood as a soccer boy, wanting to chase after his back, have not changed and have come back to life.
However, we must surpass such an admired existence.
That is precisely why it brings the team closer to a significant advancement and winning the Levain Cup title.
And the veteran, who leads the team with his play as an object of admiration, is determined to dedicate everything he has to bring a title to Tokyo.
I want to inherit the play and attitude
J.League YBC Levain Cup 1st Round 3rd Round match against Sagan Tosu. After 120 minutes, the match ended without a decision, and after a fierce battle that went to a penalty shootout, Tokyo secured the victory.
Teppei OKA, who stood on the pitch at EKIMAE REAL ESTATE STADIUM, was not only excited about his first start in a long time but also moved by another event.
The center-back pairing is with Masato MORISHIGE. He is the Tokyo bandiera that Okada has admired since childhood.
"I felt grateful to be able to play on the same pitch and in the same position as the player I admired since I was a child. At the same time, I was excited to see what kind of plays he would show. Playing together for 120 minutes was truly inspiring."
It is the first time that the two have teamed up from the start of a match on the official pitch. Aside from the goal conceded just before the end of the second half, Morishige's sharp reading and defensive response ability, along with Oka's precise build-up and strength in one-on-one defense, allowed both of their strengths to shine, closing the match with minimal goals conceded.
For player Oka, it was his first official start with 120 minutes of playtime in a match that required toughness. However, the presence of his partner, player Morishige, pushed him just one step, just a few centimeters closer to the details.
"I really feel that we should learn from Morishige's attitude of approaching practice with 100 percent effort. For me and the younger players, it's natural to give our all, but the fact that a veteran player is working with that kind of attitude has a positive influence and provides motivation for the entire team."
So far, player Oka has only participated in one match as a substitute in the J1 League, facing the reality of the professional world. He wants to turn the opportunity gained in the Levain Cup, which is said to be a "gateway for young players," into results at all costs.
"The way Morishige practices, putting his body on the line to block and his hard-working attitude are always my examples and something to aspire to. Now, I want to carry on that spirit."
To win the fiercely competitive battle for center-back positions, and to surpass our aspirations――.
This club needs a title
Masato MORISHIGE, who is entering his 14th season with Tokyo, is particularly hungry for titles. He knows better than anyone that this is what will greatly change the future of Tokyo.
"Since we have many young players, I believe that winning a title will be a successful experience for them. When looking back at the past, they can say, 'In the season we won the title, we were able to do things like this properly,' and that one successful experience will serve as a benchmark for both the team and each player. I think the impact of the experience of winning and obtaining titles on young players is significant."
Veteran player Morishige has entered the realm of being called a veteran. Thanks to the performances of players like Yasuki KIMOTO, Henrique TREVISAN, and Kanta DOI, a fierce competition for positions is unfolding.
However, I have no intention of stepping back and watching from the sidelines.
"A good team always has good competition. I personally welcome it, and the fact that we can sharpen each other within the team is a positive thing for both the team and the individual. I am able to go through each day without letting my guard down. I believe I still have a long way to go, and looking back at the matches, there are many things I still lack."
You must be feeling frustrated with the current situation. However, we take pride in the fact that we have repeatedly made corrections and improvements, continuing to move forward step by step.
And that gaze, hungrier than anyone for match appearances and title victories, has transmitted its passionate feelings through play, bringing a synergistic effect to the team.
The presence of player Oka is also a source of inspiration for player Morishige.
"We both had the determination to play in the match and seize our chances, and I know that player Oka is serious about his training. I also understand the frustrations he has felt. That’s why, as a team, we wanted to win against Tosu and achieve results. I’m happy that Oka respects me, but he is also a rival for the position. When we play together, like in the match against Tosu, I want to give advice and share my experiences. I also want to continue fostering an atmosphere where young players can play boldly and feel supported."
There are no players guaranteed to play in any position. There is competition within the team, and that is why high-quality play and a good sense of tension are created.
In order to surpass his idol, player Oka aims to bring the best scenery to the team, just like player Morishige.
The ambitions and passionate feelings that each of them holds within are now unleashed on the pitch.
