Today, on the fourth day of the American tour, we faced COLORADO RAPIDS in the second match of the group stage.

Today's Starting Lineup

With strong winds blowing, Tokyo stands downwind and moves the ball from side to side from the start, searching for an opportunity to attack.
In the first half, we pressed towards the goal centered around Sugiyama and Shinada, but the game continued with a struggle for possession in midfield, and we were unable to create any decisive chances.

With a heightened awareness of the goal, the second half began with a shot from substitute Imamura just one minute in, creating a rhythm in the attack.
Tokyo occasionally faced attacks and was subjected to sharp long-range shots from the opponent, but they did not concede a goal.
In the second half, with the wind at their backs becoming even stronger and the opposing team having a player sent off, they increased their ball possession rate.
The long-awaited opening goal came in the 69th minute, with Suzuki (Tom) breaking through on the left side to find Imamura waiting in the center.
Imamura's shot was blocked once, but he pushed in the rebound to score a priceless goal.

Circle of joy around Imamura who scored the final point

After that, there were moments when they faced a short counterattack, but they held on to their one-point lead and secured three points. They jumped to the top of the group stage.
After the match, Coach Tadashi NAKAMURA commented, "Although the players seemed to move heavily, it was good that we were able to win 1-0."

Greet the Japanese residentsafter the match	Group Photo

After the match, I had a meal and watched the match between the Mexico U-17 national team and Valencia CF, witnessing the battle of the same age group on a global stage.
For dinner, we enjoyed American-style steak at a restaurant near the hotel, with their cooperation, and replenished our energy.

Watch matches of the same age group	Bite into the steak

The next match is Group Stage Sec. 3 vs PHILADELPHIA UNION (local time 10:00 on the 22nd).