Today is the Final Round match against Real Salt Lake.
The team had breakfast and held a meeting in preparation for the match.
The players' expressions conveyed a strong sense of tension.

Move to the match venue and start warming up.
It was very lively, and we were able to have the best warm-up atmosphere since coming to America.

And finally, kickoff.

While Tokyo holds the ball and looks for a path to the goal by shaking the opponent left and right, Real Salt Lake takes the shortest and simplest route to the goal after stealing the ball.
As each team's desired style of football is visible, no goals were scored and the first half ended.
We reconfirmed that this is the crucial moment during halftime and entered the second half.
In the second half, Real Salt Lake, having the wind at their backs, approached the goal using long balls.
Even so, we were able to respond without panicking and proceed with the match at our own pace, but we allowed the opening goal due to an easy mistake.
With 15 minutes remaining, we conceded a goal, putting us in a difficult situation, but we will use our substitutions and aim for the goal as a team.
However, the opponent is firmly defending in front of the goal, and we are not allowed to take a shot.
3 minutes of additional time, we launch a final assault, but time is up.
The GA CUP was eliminated in the Round of 16.
It was a very regrettable defeat, especially since we were able to play soccer at our own pace.
During the evening meeting, each player shared their true feelings with one another.
Although we were eliminated from the tournament, we still have 3 more matches to play before returning home, so we want to tighten our resolve once again to grow as a team.
【Next Match Information】
Local time April 17 (Thursday) 9:00 Kick-off
vs Philadelphia Union
◇Day 1 details are here
◇Day 2 details are here
◇Day 3 details are here
◇Day 4 details are here
◇Day 5 details are here
◇Day 6 details are here
