Today, the fifth day of the expedition, there was a day off from the tournament, but it was used to prepare for tomorrow.

In the morning, we confirmed the team tactics for the first time.
Until now, I intentionally did not go into detail about that part for the sake of the players' experience, but we confirmed the defensive agreements and how the team moves the ball.
We also checked how to enter crosses.
The rest of the time was relaxed, with loud laughter coming from the players passing the ball around.
Compared to the first day of the expedition, it felt like the players were getting along very well.

Tactical Review Practice	Passing the ball while relaxing

In the afternoon, there will be a practice match with FC Imabari, who is also participating in this tournament from Japan, consisting of two 20-minute halves.
The result was a 3-0 victory, and we were able to create several short counters by winning the ball from high pressing from the front, but we lacked accuracy in the final part, resulting in only three goals.

Commemorative photo with FC Imabari players

The last group stage match against Guangzhou Evergrande is a crucial game where losing means elimination. The opposing team has eight players from the China national team and also includes a Japanese coach.
However, I heard encouraging words from the players saying, "We will definitely win with the pride of FC Tokyo in our hearts," so it will surely be a good game.

Entering the fifth day of the expedition, the players are gradually accumulating fatigue, but under the directive of Coach Okuhara to weigh in three times a day and to eat at least three bowls of rice, there have been no players particularly falling ill, and everything is going smoothly.
Especially the meals at the accommodation are delicious to the level of "as expected from authentic Chinese cuisine," and the players and staff may need to be careful not to overeat.
 

I would like to thank the tournament organizing staff for providing us with such a wonderful opportunity and for their excellent hospitality.