Sotan TANABE

(I created quite a few chances after coming on as a substitute. Looking back at today's match)
"To be honest, I wanted to score and win. I received instructions from the coach to 'get into the box,' so I was eagerly aiming for the goal during the heading shot situation.
A good ball came, but I feel disappointed that I couldn't score.

(We are entering a break period from here. What do you want to work on?)
"In the last few matches, we haven't been able to score. While improving our finishing accuracy, I also want to enhance our ability to break down defenses as a team in training."

《Keigo HIGASHI》

(It was a frustrating match)
I think it was a match we needed to win. We had many chances, and not being able to score one is something we should work on as a challenge heading into the break.
I think we were able to play an overwhelming match otherwise, and we didn't feel like we were being countered. While managing risks, we were able to apply pressure on the opponent, and I want to continue that. I believe this point is an important one, so I want to make good preparations for the next match while reflecting on today's lessons.

(We are entering the break in 2nd place, but what about this performance?)
I think the points are not bad. Hiroshima is a bit ahead, but there are still more than half of the matches left, so we want to keep up. The match against Sapporo was good, and I believe we have been playing well, so I want to build the strength to win during this break.
Having played matches in a tight schedule of 15 consecutive games, when we are tired, we have been able to create various forms as a team, such as building blocks to defend.
I think it depends on the individual, so I want to be more particular about it, and I want to practice to be able to score by breaking through from both the sides and the middle.

Summary of the press conference by Kenta HASEGAWA, Tokyo's coach

I am truly grateful that both teams' fans and supporters created a very good atmosphere, allowing us to play the last match before the break in a great environment.
Many fans and supporters from Tokyo came to the stadium to cheer. I am always supported by everyone's encouragement.

In the last three official matches, we did not score any goals, so we approached our training with a focus on offense. We entered this match determined to score, and especially in the second half, we were able to create several chances. However, the fact that we couldn't convert any of those chances means we still have a lot of training to do.
However, Tosu also has a very solid defensive line. Especially with powerful players like Ibarbo and Tagawa, being able to create scenes where we repeatedly approach the opponent's goal while properly managing risks is evidence that the Tokyo players have gained strength. Furthermore, if we aim for even higher, I once again realized that as a team, we need to develop the ability to finish in those situations.
As I mentioned earlier, Tosu switched to a five-back formation and focused on defense, adopting a strategy to aim for counterattacks, which made the final stages difficult. In that situation, I truly believe the players did a great job by moving the ball well and creating many shooting opportunities.
The 15-match series has ended, and I want to refresh myself properly and prepare to make a good start in the second half of the season.

《Q&A》
Q=I think the defense was quite good. What is your summary of the 15 consecutive matches?
I think it was a situation where it wouldn't be surprising to get caught on the counter while pushing forward, but in that context, the defense, including Kento HASHIMOTO, the two center-backs, and the goalkeeper, was able to respond solidly.
In the first half, there was one dangerous moment from a corner kick, but I think the defense line is very focused and playing with confidence. Today, it became a high-tempo match where the forward Ibarbo had many opportunities to match up against the center-backs. In that context, the ability to move the body and respond well is not only due to the defense but also particularly the midfield and the entire attacking unit, which has improved significantly. There were unavoidable goals conceded in the early stages, but there were also goals that could have been prevented. I believe the reduction in those preventable goals is due to their high level of ability.

《Press Conference Summary of Tosu's Massimo FICCADENTI》
"Overall, it was a balanced match. In the last 10 minutes, the distance between the players became poor, and we were saved about three times by Gonda's decisive saves."
Both Ibarbo and Fukuda were returning from injuries, so it was understood that their activity level would drop in the second half.
Since we were pushed back by a team that can kick the ball well, I want to be well prepared for the next match.

《Q&A》
Q=Please explain the intention behind switching to a 5-back formation during the match.
"I instructed a five-back formation from the start of the second half. It was a choice made with players in poor condition."
First, we need to ensure everyone's condition is ready, and it was a five-back formation also aimed at countering Diego OLIVEIRA.