Review of the previous match against Yokohama FC
A significant victory achieved in the first match. "Chikarazo Tokyo" faced Yokohama FC away in the Meiji Yasuda J1 League Sec. 1 and won 1-0, firmly proving what they have built up since the camp. They brilliantly secured 3 points in the opening match.
The first goal of the team led by new coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI was a strike born from a fluid passing play that could be described as a "statement of intent."
In the 16th minute of the second half, Kosuke SHIRAI made a powerful vertical dribble breakthrough on the right side to earn a throw-in. The ball thrown by Shirai was passed to Teruhito NAKAGAWA, and after receiving the return from Shirai, it was quickly connected with Kei KOIZUMI and Takahiro KO, creating an angle towards the center of the penalty area with one-touch passes. Then, Kota TAWARATSUMIDA, positioned centrally, dropped the ball forward directly, and Shirai, who had sprinted in from the right side, took a well-aimed left-footed shot. The beautiful goal, executed vividly with many players working in unison, sent the away fans into a frenzy. The heroic right wing-back dashed straight to the fans and supporters behind the goal, sharing the joy with many teammates who had traveled to the away match.
Tokyo, which has newly adopted a three-back formation, struggled to break down their opponents who tightened the center from the first half, and continued to face difficulties in launching effective attacks due to the hard and dry pitch. What was showcased during this critical period, where attention was focused on how to find a breakthrough, was a moment that encapsulated the coach's style aiming for both ball possession and sharp attacks. It evoked a sense of the potential hidden within 'PITA Tokyo' and the bright future of the newly formed blue-red team.
Match Preview
Now, it's the home opening match.
Tokyo secured 3 points from Yokohama FC in their opening match. The first match at Ajinomoto Stadium will see them face FC Machida Zelvia, who also calls Tokyo home. The frustration of experiencing a 'season double' defeat in last season's encounters should be etched in the minds of everyone associated with the blue and red. While sincerely acknowledging the current situation of finishing 7th without a win against both clubs, including Tokyo Verdy, they aim to seize victory from Machida and strive for a consecutive opening win at all costs.
The players vividly remember the humiliation they experienced in last season's match against Machida.
Tsuyoshi OGASHIWA stated, "We cannot lose any more to clubs that share the same home town of Tokyo, and there is a definite reason we must win this match. Last season, we finished at the bottom among the three Tokyo teams, and we suffered a significant humiliation against Machida. This is important as it is our home opener, but on this day, it is not about the form or content; we must truly show our spirit and win." Masato MORISHIGE added, "Last season, we struggled to win at Ajinomoto Stadium. Moreover, our opponent for the home opener is Machida, against whom we lost twice, so I believe the players' motivation will naturally rise. I want to present a victory to our fans and supporters in the home opener, and I understand that we must do so to earn their satisfaction. We absolutely want to end with a victory."
Machida, last season, achieved a top-tier finish in their first year of J1 promotion, centered around the league's fewest goals conceded, securing third place in the league and earning a spot in the AFC Champions League (2025-2026 season). In the opening match, they suffered a comeback loss to Sanfrecce Hiroshima, and were hit by a series of injuries to their newly signed center-backs during the match. However, for them, aiming for the top with significant reinforcements, avoiding consecutive losses is a must in this match. The battle for possession will likely be a key point.
On February 21 (Friday), the day before the match against Machida, head coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI emphasized maintaining a calm mindset while promising an emotionally charged game in the home opener.
"Of course, it's not just the two teams from Tokyo that we face, but I believe the fans and supporters will be quite passionate. We need to fully sense that voltage and energy, and since we are a team that values the ball, we must surpass teams with high intensity like Machida in terms of enthusiasm and passion."
First, I want to calmly assess my position and dominate the pitch with superior predictions and intensity. Keep my eyes and mind cool, while my heart and play are hot and intense──.
The "Rikuzou Tokyo" aims to embody soccer on the pitch, as the blue-red army seeks to overcome last season's humiliation and achieve two consecutive wins at Ajinomoto Stadium.
[Interview with Coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI]
Q: With the victory in the league's first match, we can welcome the home opener with a good momentum. I believe the expectations of the fans and supporters are high.
A, I want to meet everyone's expectations. In that process, we need to grow into a team that can gradually earn your trust. Since you have been providing wonderful support even away, I believe it will be even more exciting at home. With your support, I hope we can aim for victory together.
Q: The maximum number of registered substitute members has changed from this season.
A, there will be more options. Since we can have plans tailored to various situations, I want to make good use of that. One of my shortcomings, which I recognize, is the timing of substitutions. My thoughts and feelings often come before tactical considerations. With the increase in the number of substitute members, I have been able to think through various scenarios. By increasing the number of substitution cards at hand, I believe it has become easier for me to make bold changes.
Q: Last season, there were no victories against teams based in Tokyo.
I often hear that story, but those two teams are not the only opponents. However, I understand that this battle is important. I want to fully feel that intensity and turn it into energy for the fight. To win, we must surpass our opponents in various ways. I believe we also need to exceed them in terms of intensity and passion.
[Player Interview]
<Taishi Brandon NOZAWA>
Q, please review the previous match.
It is positive that we won as a team, and I felt that there is still room for growth. I want to continue growing while winning as a team. Personally, I want to seek quality in both offensive and defensive plays, and I reaffirmed my desire to continue growing for the sake of the team.
Q: The game situation was quickly assessed, and at times, decisive plays were observed.
I was aware of using the width of the pitch simply while managing risks based on the pitch conditions and the situation at the time. I believe that connecting the ball is not the only objective, nor is relying heavily on long balls. I think it is important to attack effectively and build up play, so I want to continue to focus on sending the ball to areas and spaces that the opponent finds uncomfortable.
Q, In fighting with the new system, did you feel any difficulties, such as in controlling the defense?
A, regardless of the system or defensive formation, it is natural for the players on the pitch to play with responsibility, and if each player has that foundation, the solidity of the defense will inevitably emerge. However, since the number of players in front of our goal is increasing, I believe we also have the strength to flexibly care for the power of rebounds and disturbances.
Q: The home opening match is against FC Machida Zelvia. Please let me know if there are any points to be cautious about.
A. I have the impression that they play with a thorough approach in both offense and defense. I want to be cautious of their hard work calculated from victory, such as in ball contests and recovering second balls. However, I don't think we need to fear them at all. We want to express our play in a way that is true to ourselves and with confidence. I believe that our fans and supporters are looking forward to this match, and I think they will back us up with their passionate support. To meet those expectations, I want to express not only tactical aspects but also bold plays at times. I will do my best to ensure everyone enjoys the experience at Ajinomoto Stadium.
<Kosuke SHIRAI>
Q: Please reflect on the match against Yokohama FC.
In addition to being the opening match away, the conditions of the pitch made for a difficult game. We couldn't play the football we wanted, but I think it's positive that we were able to secure 3 points first.
Q: You played as a wing-back, how was it throughout the 90 minutes?
A, it was still not enough. There were some conditional aspects that I mentioned earlier, but there are still many areas that are lacking, so I believe it will improve from here.
Q: The match against Yokohama FC was played with the same system by both teams.
A, I was conscious of not conceding goals. When I reflected on the match after it ended, I realized that my positioning was too low, which led to being pushed back at times. To be honest, it felt more like I was being forced to defend rather than consciously defending. When I was playing as a wing-back, I should have been the one pushing forward. I believe that is a point I need to reflect on.
Q, we capitalized on our few chances and secured the victory. Please review the scoring scene.
A, that goal was really just a matter of coincidence that I was the one to finish it, but many players were involved and we were able to score well. Since Rikizo MATSUHASHI became the coach, it has often been said to penetrate the middle, so I think this play embodied that.
Q: You have experience as a wing-back even before joining Tokyo. How do you want to contribute that experience to the team?
I will provide any advice or support that I can, but since it's been a while for me as well, I think it's important to first regain my sense of the game. Given my experience, I believe I can adapt quickly. I hope to show a different side of myself compared to when I played as a fullback.
Q: When you scored a goal in the match against Albirex Niigata last season, you mentioned that you had forgotten how to celebrate due to it being your first goal in a while, and that’s how “Super Shirai” was born. How was it this time?
A, I think it was cool this time. I believe I was able to perform properly. Rather than a performance, I just went to the goal area driven by my emotions (laughs).
