On the 18th (Thursday), the 5th day of the expedition, there will be the second match of the qualifying league against INTER. With the kickoff at 20:45, the players had to prepare creatively throughout the morning for this unusual time.

We spent time moving our bodies while relaxing, such as in Trainer Hayashi's yoga class, and in the meeting, we reviewed yesterday's match and confirmed our strategies to ensure we are in perfect condition for the game.

The match venue is the stadium where the opening ceremony was held, and there were many spectators, including those who came to support FC Tokyo.

The match started with a kickoff from FC Tokyo U-15 Fukagawa. They played without fear of their opponents, taking consecutive shots and entering the match with momentum.
Inter was at a high level in terms of technique, tactics, and physicality. Although the time spent holding the ball increased, we will continue to counter by maintaining our attitude of going to win the ball and connecting the play.
In the 11th minute of the first half, Yota KAWACHI's overlap created a chance by breaking down the left side, but it did not result in a goal.
Then, just one minute later, in the 12th minute of the first half, we lost the ball in midfield and were quickly caught behind the defense line. It became a regrettable goal as it was calmly slotted into the net.
Even in the second half, we aimed for a tie and played aggressively, but in the 6th minute of the second half, we conceded a goal due to a buildup mistake, making it 0-2.
Furthermore, in the 21st minute of the second half, we conceded the third goal from the opponent's fast-paced attack.
Nevertheless, including the bench members, everyone fought without giving up and aimed for the goal.
Then, during stoppage time, after successfully defending against the opponent's corner kick, we sent the ball forward for a counterattack. Center-back Kanato HATAYAMA sprinted up to receive the ball and made a through pass to Harushiro MATSUSHITA. This connected, and he took a shot, but it was met with a fine save by the opposing goalkeeper, preventing us from scoring.
The match ended as is, resulting in a 0-3 defeat.

It was a valuable experience to feel the quality of top-level Italian players, to reflect on what we can do to catch up and surpass them, and to reconsider our level of commitment.
To advance from the qualifying league, a victory is necessary in tomorrow's match.
It was a frustrating defeat, but we will look ahead to advance through the qualifying league and vow to prepare ourselves to be in the best condition for tomorrow's match, concluding our activities on the fifth day.