Dream soccer player.
Even now, standing on the same stage as a professional soccer player, the feeling of wanting to continue chasing after their back has not changed since they were a young soccer player.
However, we must surpass such an admired presence.
This is precisely why the team is getting closer to winning the Levain Cup title.
And the veteran who leads the team as an admired presence, is also determined to dedicate everything he has to this club in order to bring a title to Tokyo.
Inheriting the play and attitude
J.League YBC Levain Cup 1st Round 3rd Round Sagan Tosu Match. After 120 minutes, the match ended in a tie and Tokyo secured the victory in a fierce battle that went into penalty kicks.
Teppei OKA, who stood on the pitch of EKIMAE REAL ESTATE STADIUM, not only made his first start in a long time, but also had another event that shook his heart.
The center back pairing is made up of Masato MORISHIGE. Okada has always admired Tokyo's Bandiera since he was a child.
"I had a feeling of gratitude for being able to play on the same pitch and in the same position as the player I had admired since I was a child. At the same time, I was also excited to see what kind of play they would show. Playing together for 120 minutes was truly inspiring."
It was the first time for the two to form a combination on the pitch in an official match since the start of the game. Except for the late goal conceded in the second half, the strengths of Morishige's sharp reading and defensive ability, and Okada's accurate build-up and strong man-to-man defense were utilized, and the game was closed with the fewest goals conceded.
For player Okada, it was his first starting appearance in an official match, with 120 minutes of playtime and a tough battle ahead. However, the presence of teammate Morishige, who they formed a partnership with, pushed them forward in the final moments, by just a step or a few centimeters.
"I feel that we really need to learn from the attitude of Morishige, who approaches practice with 100% effort. It is natural for me and the young players to give 100%, but the fact that veteran players are approaching it with such an attitude has a positive impact and motivation on the entire team."
So far, player Okada has only made one appearance as a substitute in the J1 League and is facing the reality of the professional world. He wants to make the most of the opportunity he gained in the Levain Cup, known as the "gateway for young players", and turn it into results.
"I want to inherit the attitude of Morishige, who always puts his body on the line and works hard in practice, as my role model and something to emulate. This time, I want to continue that attitude."
To win the fierce battle for the center back position, and to surpass our aspirations――.
This club needs a title
Masato MORISHIGE, who is entering his 14th season with Tokyo, is hungry for titles more than anyone else. That is because he knows better than anyone else that it will greatly change Tokyo's future.
"Since we have many young players, I believe that winning the title will be a successful experience. When we look back on the past, we can say, 'We were able to do this well during the season we won the title,' and I think that one successful experience will become a measure for both the team and the players. I believe that winning the championship and acquiring titles will have a big impact on our young players."
Veteran player Morishige has entered the stage of being called a veteran. With the contributions of players such as Yasuki Kimoto, Henrique Trevisan, and Kanta Doi, a fierce competition for positions is unfolding.
However, I have no intention of taking a step back and just watching.
"Good teams always have good competition. I myself am very welcome, and being able to compete within the team is a plus for both the team and the individual. I am able to spend each day without letting my guard down. Personally, I still have a lot to improve and when I look back at the game, there are still many things I need to work on."
There is no doubt that we are frustrated with the current situation. However, we have always made corrections and improvements, and we are proud to have continued to move forward step by step.
And the hunger in their eyes, more than anyone else, for playing and winning titles, their passionate feelings spread to their teammates through their play, bringing a synergistic effect to the team.
Okasen player's presence is also a stimulus for Morishige player.
"Both of us wanted to play in the game and seize the opportunity, and I know that Okamoto has been working hard in practice. I also know that he has had some frustrating experiences. That's why we wanted to beat Tosu as a team and get results. I'm happy that Okamoto respects me, but he is also a rival for my position. When we play together like in the Tosu game, I want to give advice and share my experiences, and I want to continue to create an atmosphere and provide support for young players to play with confidence."
No player is guaranteed to play regardless of the position they play. There is competition within the team, and that is why high-quality play and good tension are created.
Okasen is to surpass the existence of longing, Morishige is to bring the best scenery to the team--.
The ambitions and passionate feelings that each person holds within them are now being unleashed on the pitch.
