Today, we will face the strongest team in our expedition, Schalke 04 U19.
I want to challenge Schalke, who is leading the Bundesliga U19 West, without hesitation.
After a 2-hour bus ride, when we arrived at the ground, it started raining heavily. Unlike Japan, the field was covered with loose and bumpy natural grass, making it a challenging game that felt like we came here to experience these tough conditions.

Early in the game, we slipped while trying to defend against a cross ball in the penalty area, causing us to lose the ball and concede the first goal.

The opponent, with their technical skills and systematic possession from the GK, as well as players with exceptional physical abilities, showed a clear difference from the previous opponents even on this ground condition where they increased their speed.
After conceding a goal, we tried to create our own opportunities and challenge from the outside, but we were unable to break through their defense. We could feel the strength of the top club in the Bundesliga.
At the 26-minute mark, during a good period of play, we were scored on due to a mistake in the final line. Then, at the 41-minute mark, we were caught on the left side and conceded a goal from a cross, ending the first half with a score of 0-3.

At halftime, coach Sato sends us off with the words, "We've come all the way to Germany and are facing such a strong opponent, so let's face reality and see what kind of challenge we can take on from here!"

In the second half, aggressive pressing from the front line and continuous challenges against the ball holder put pressure on the opponent. In the 51st minute, Taniguchi stole possession from the GK and passed it to Imamura, who couldn't take a shot but Yokota scored in the left corner from the loose ball. One goal is returned.
From here, the players on the front line continue to increase their movement and work hard, while the DF players calmly and strongly go for the ball, creating several chances that embody the Tokyo style. However, in the end, the time when they cannot be allowed to do so continues, and the game ends 1-3.
We suffered our first loss on this expedition.

I want to approach tomorrow's final game by organizing and stacking what I could and couldn't do today.