<Match Review>
The final match of the 2022 season has finally arrived. The opponent for this match is Kawasaki Frontale, a strong rival team separated by the Tama River. Having lost 0-1 in the opening match of this season, they are the perfect opponent to measure the growth of the team throughout the season.
"Playing with the ball" (Coach Albert) This season, we have embarked on a transformation. In order to give the fans and supporters who have gathered at Ajinomoto Stadium expectations for further progress next season, we faced a match where results and content were demanded.
1st HALF - Despite being one goal behind, they turn around with numerical advantage
The first half, which started with Tokyo's kickoff, was a continuous play of high intensity and quick transitions from both teams. When either team had the ball, they moved it at a fast pace, and the defensive team responded with a high press without stopping their feet. The beginning was a rapid development.
As the game settled down, there were more scenes where Kawasaki threatened the goal. However, in the 7th minute of the first half, Kento TACHIBANADA's header shot missed the frame, and in the 9th minute, Joao SCHMIDT's middle shot was blocked by Jakub SLOWIK.
On the other hand, in the 12th minute of the first half, Tokyo made their first shot of the day. Using the combination of Hotaka NAKAMURA and Ryoma WATANABE on the right side, they broke through and Koki TSUKAGAWA reacted to the loose ball from a cross and attempted a mid-range shot.
However, the reigning champion aiming for a third consecutive victory does not back down. In the 19th minute of the first half, Marcinho on the left side was unable to stop Yasuto Wakizaka in the center, who swung his favorite right foot. Slowik also reacted, but the ball that flew to the corner of the goal was sucked into the net, conceding the opening goal.
Still, Tokyo aims for an equalizer without looking down. And in the 29th minute of the first half, Adailton, who broke through on a feed from Tsukagawa, was brought down by the opposing goalkeeper outside the penalty area, resulting in Sung Ryong JUNG being sent off and creating a numerical advantage.
After that, Tokyo continued to push forward. On the right side, Nakamura was able to get into deep positions many times and sent numerous crosses. However, they did not connect with any players in front of the goal, and Adailton's overhead shot and Kuryu Matsuki's right-footed volley both missed the target, leaving them one goal behind at halftime.
2nd HALF - The match was not decided by one point
The equalizing goal was suddenly born. In the 2nd minute of the second half, a second attack from a corner kick. Nakata player stuck on the right side, and Tsukagawa player crossed, and Adailton player pushed in the scramble in front of the goal.
The game turned into a fierce battle from here. In the 8th minute of the second half, Tokyo's Luiz Phellype hit the bar with a shot, increasing the momentum for a comeback, but once again Kawasaki took a step forward. In the 16th minute of the second half, Masato Morishige lost the ball while trying to keep it near the goal line and switch with the opponent, allowing Tatsuta to make the final pass. Marcinho's shot in front of the goal didn't meet the ball, but Jakub Slowik's deflected ball was sucked into the goal.
However, Tokyo also fought back. In the 28th minute of the second half, Kazuya KONNO, who came on as a substitute, supplied a cross ball from the right side. Watanabe, who had moved to the outside left back position, crossed it back and Adailton headed it in.
However, just after catching up to the tie, the ball was brought to the goal and in the end, Shintaro KURUMAYA's cross hit Watanabe's foot and went in. It was the third time they had given up the lead.
Tokyo, who cannot afford to lose to a team with one less player at home, brought in players Leandro and Shuto ABE and went on the offensive, but were unable to break through the opponent's solid and concentrated defense, and the final whistle was blown after 5 minutes of additional time.
Albert Tokyo's first year ended in 6th place with 14 wins, 7 draws, and 13 losses.
MATCH DETAILS
＜FC Tokyo＞
STARTING Ⅺ
GK Jakub SLOWIK
DF Hogao NAKAMURA/Yasuki KIMOTO/Masato MORISHIGE/Yuto NAGATOMO (21st minute of the second half: Kazuya KONNO)
MF Koki TSUKAGAWA (21st minute of the second half: Keiki MITA)/Keigo HIGASHI/Kuryu MATSUKI (36th minute of the second half: Leandro)
FW Ryo WATANABE (36th minute of the second half: Shuto ABE)/Luiz PHELLYPE/Adailton
SUBS
GK Akihiro HAYASHI
DF Junya SUZUKI/Seiji KIMURA
GOAL
2 minutes into the second half: Adailton/28 minutes into the second half: Adailton
＜Kawasaki Frontale＞
STARTING Ⅺ
GK Sung Ryong JUNG
DF Miki YAMANE/Jesiel/Shogo TANIGUCHI/Kyohei NOBORIZATO (32nd minute: Kenta TANNO)
MF Joao SCHMIDT (14th minute: Ryota OSHIMA)/Yasuto WAKIZAKA (0th minute: Shintaro KURUMAYA)/Kento TACHIBANADA
FW Akihiro IENAGA/MARCINHO (35th minute: Kazuya YAMAMURA)/Yu KOBAYASHI (14th minute: Kei CHINEN)
SUBS
MF Kazuki KOZUKA
FW Daiya TONO
GOAL
First half 19 minutes: Wakisaka/Second half 17 minutes: MARCINHO/Second half 30 minutes: Own goal
[Albert PUIG ORTONEDA Interview]
Q, please look back on today's game.
A, it was a match where I couldn’t believe we lost. We were able to start well. I think Kawasaki was only able to find attacking opportunities through our mistakes and counterattacks. However, despite such a good start, we conceded the first goal due to our own ball loss. Kawasaki, of course, has players of high quality. If we make a mistake, they have the ability to score goals. After that, I think we continued to play well, and the situation arose where Adailton received a foul that could have led to an injury, resulting in a sending off. After that, regardless of the opponent having fewer players, we continued to dominate the match in the way we had anticipated and aimed for. Then, despite creating many chances, we couldn’t finish them off, and since we are human, there were players who made mistakes on the pitch. From those mistakes, we conceded goals.
At the end of the season, I think we were able to play well enough to deserve a victory in these two matches. If we had been able to accumulate points, it would have been possible to finish the season in 3rd or 4th place. However, I believe that things and phenomena happen for a reason. For us, finishing in 6th place in our first season of change is not a bad result at all. However, there was a possibility of finishing in 3rd or 4th place, and we ended up in 6th place despite playing well. I think it was a defeat that contained a message that we still have a long way to go. It contains a message to keep our feet on the ground and continue to walk firmly. We were able to apply our style change well and there were many matches where we were able to play better than the teams that finished higher than us. In that sense, I think it was a season that the players can be proud of.
What we need right now is to rest. Not only the staff but also the players have endured tough days during the three seasons affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. That is precisely why, with the World Cup taking place this time, we have a two-month off period. I believe we have made efforts over these three years that deserve fully enjoying this break. We want to rest well, recharge our energy, and, together with the foundation built this season, make next season a good one.
Q: Are there any challenges in the attacking aspect for the upcoming season?
A, I think it was an evenly matched season. However, I believe that achieving the changes we made was by no means easy. What I expect for next season is that the players who will newly join the team quickly adapt to it. Also, I want to continue building and developing the style we have been working on this season. I want to keep persuading the players again and again that what will lead us upward is a strong mentality that is committed to competing. We were able to consistently express good soccer in the last month. I hope we can express that over a longer period next season. I firmly believe that if you keep playing well in soccer, you can keep winning. That is what I want to look forward to next season. I do not guarantee winning the title. This is because the league has 17 rival teams, and they are also fighting with all their might to win the title. To say we will definitely win is, I think, a lack of respect for the rival teams.
[Player Interview]
<Akihiro HAYASHI>
Q, how did you feel when you entered the bench in the last game?
A, Since we lost, I can't say I'm happy, but I’m glad that the last match of this season was the Tamagawa Clasico and that I was able to return to that match. I think it was the perfect finale, and unless I join Kawasaki Frontale while I’m still active, I won’t have another chance to play in the Tamagawa Clasico, so aside from the result, I believe I was able to end on a good note like this.
Q, Did Lin player choose to terminate the contract before the final round?
A, yes, it was my decision to make it public. I have been with the club for six years, and during the past two years, I have felt very frustrated. Although announcing the contract expiration often does not work out well for players, even weighing that, I could never bring myself to cut off communication with those who sent me messages and comments (via SNS, etc.) during these two years until my next team was decided. So, I asked to be allowed to make it public. It was an unusual case for Tokyo, and as a player, I also wanted to keep it private, but I believe I was able to overcome these two years thanks to the fans and supporters, so I made the announcement as a way to express my gratitude. I was offered the opportunity to speak in front of everyone, but I declined because I would have ended up crying if I spoke. Everything I wanted to say is contained in the comment I released.
Q, Did you see a lot of (Hayashi's) uniforms today?
A, I was overwhelmed (laughs). Seeing that almost made me cry, so I tried not to talk much.
Q: How did you feel about hearing the "Hayashi Tokyo" chant?
A, Even with such a chant, I almost cried, so I covered my ears as much as possible and only let a little of it in (laughs).
Q, in the comments about the end of the contract, there was a phrase "I hope to bloom one or two more flowers in the remaining soccer life", and I think there are fans and supporters who are also looking forward to your future activities.
A, I feel a great deal of frustration about the end of this contract, and I believe I still had more to offer. Therefore, I want to perform well at my next team so that this team's decision turns into regret. Of course, I understand the team's judgment as well. I don't think a player who was useless for two years and then returned near the end of the season can have their contract extended. So, making them regret ending my contract at the next team is the greatest way to repay them.
Q, What position did FC Tokyo hold during their 6 years of being on the team, compared to other teams?
A, When I came to Tokyo, I felt there was no sense of team unity. There were many skilled players, but everyone played individually and only tried to come together during matches, so I thought we couldn’t win like that. It was frustrating that this group of players couldn’t compete for the championship. Over these six years, I have worked with Masato MORISHIGE to try to change that, and I think we have become a bit more human as a result.
Q, Do you have any memorable scenes during your time playing for this team?
A, in the first year when a group of strong personalities gathered, the atmosphere was like, "Is this really practice?" We were not quite veterans, but there were a few older players, and yet there was no unity. The start was when we sincerely began talking together from that situation, so that is what left the strongest impression on me.
Q, communication between the goalkeeper and the last line was smooth, but there was an impression that the attacking line and the defensive line were divided. I think it was a task to stick to the core. Is the team now sticking to the core?
A, First of all, no matter how poor the content is, it is essential not to let the defense collapse in order to win in the league. Even if the attack rides the wave at times, without a stable defense, it is impossible to compete at the top. The front players and the back players were divided, and we were operating with the mindset that it would be fine as long as we had a solid defense, but that was not enough. To improve this team, the first year was spent continuously discussing concrete matters such as which players should be allowed to play comfortably, who should take responsibility for the connection between lines, and how to connect them. If I say results came out, actually no results were left, and the trial and error continued into the second year. This team still needs to keep experimenting and devising new ideas, so even after I am gone, unless players who can take on such a role emerge, I think it will be difficult for the team to make another leap forward, so I want to entrust it to them.
Q, Did you talk to Go HATANO and entrust your feelings?
A, I have known him since he was in the first year of junior high school. We joined the team at the same time, but he started by calling me Coach Hayashi. It was like a coach-player relationship from the start. Even so, we practiced goalkeeping together for six years, and during those six years, I kept pointing out his habits and strengths. Since he is about the same height as me, there were things he made me realize, and we were teammates who pushed each other to improve. He also gave me words of appreciation, and I felt the same way at the same time. It was six years in which we both grew.
<Masato MORISHIGE>
Q: Please tell us what you felt during today's game.
A, I think the game took a different turn because the opponent had a player sent off. At the beginning of the first half, we were observing the situation, but we were able to control the ball. However, small mistakes affect the outcome, so as a team, we need to eliminate them.
Q, What part of the team's progress this season have you been able to confirm?
A, Speaking just about today's match, it was a difficult situation, but considering the battles we've had so far and everything we've done up to now, I believe we have definitely grown. I think it also comes down to the experience gained in this style of football, so I want to continue building on that.
Q, Will it be important to continue gaining experience in the coming season?
A, I think that is the most important point—understanding what kind of situation the team will be in at times like this, and knowing how to respond when such challenges arise. If we can experience this once or twice, I believe we will be able to handle these situations better during matches.
<Yuto NAGATOMO>
Q, you finished the season without any major injuries, right?
A, I was able to join the national team without any injuries and head into the World Cup, so that was good to begin with.
Q, this season, I played as a left and right fullback and was used in various ways by coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA. Did you find any areas of growth or discovery for yourself?
A, I think I was able to show Nagatomo's growth as a new right fullback. Until now, my play was mostly overlapping on the outside and crossing, but under coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA, I learned to play more centrally and about the relationship with the wingers, which will also be useful for the national team, and I am grateful for that.
Q, Today, Matsuki filled in the space for Nagatomo and there was a scene where Nagatomo moved forward. The variations have increased.
A, the members will change again in the national team, so while improving coordination, I think I can adapt to various positions with my current self.
Q, Coach Albert said, "With a player with such a career, he could have ignored what I said. He always humbly did what he was told." What is the source of that humility?
A, It’s because I want to grow. I am always aiming for growth and improving myself, so there is something to learn from anyone, whether they are senior or junior. I am constantly looking for those hints. The root of it is a strong desire for growth.
Q, this is the fourth World Cup, how will you prepare for it in terms of your condition?
A, I am not worried about how to manage my physical condition and mental state because I understand it well from participating in three tournaments. Rather, when pressure is applied, adrenaline flows and my body moves as if I have returned to my twenties. That is precisely why I seek pressure. The World Cup gives me great pressure, so I want to enjoy it.
<Keigo HIGASHI>
Q, How was the final match?
A, It was a match we had to win, and to become champions next year, I feel that playing a match like today makes it quite difficult to claim the title. The opponent was reduced to 10 players, so we had to secure all 3 points.
Q, Was it difficult to fight after the opponent's numbers decreased due to taking the first point?
A, Rather than being difficult, I believe we were overwhelmingly more advantageous, so there is absolutely no excuse. It comes down to small mistakes or concentration—those are the kinds of things that decide the outcome in the end. That was also the case in the previous match against Nagoya, where we showed no openings. However, the direction we are heading and the style we are playing must undoubtedly be maintained without wavering, and while doing that, the decisive moments remain a challenge. I myself want to be even more particular and committed moving forward.
Q, please tell us your goal for the upcoming season.
A, I want to win titles in both the league and the cup competitions. I believe we need to aim for trophies beyond just the league, so I want to make it that kind of season.
Q, The first match of this season and the final match of the season will both be against Kawasaki. I think there are parts that have been done based on the Kawasaki match, but how do you feel about the progress and momentum over the past year?
A, To be honest, since the opponent was reduced to 10 players, it is difficult to make a direct comparison, but on the other hand, I think it’s fair to take it positively that we caused them to be down to 10 players. Not only in the match against Kawasaki, but I also believe there are parts where the team has been able to reliably do what we want to do from the start of the season. We can’t solve everything in one year, and we have to keep working on it for two or three years, so I think everyone just has to believe in this without wavering and keep going.
Q, Did you have any expectations that you would be able to do this much in the past year as a player? Do you have a sense of accomplishment for what you have achieved so far?
A, In terms of style, regardless of whether it is good or bad, I think it has clearly changed. In that sense, I do feel a sense of progress, but as I mentioned earlier, in soccer, the finer details make the difference, and I feel that no matter what style you play, those details cannot be overlooked. Whether we can be particular about that, it depends on the players' awareness and the parts we can change together, and I believe we can turn that into mental toughness. That is still a challenge, and I also feel that, given my age, I need to take the lead, so we must eliminate matches like today’s.
Q: Please reflect on the team's top goal count to end the season. Please review today's goals.
A, looking back on this season, first of all, I was able to start the season in good condition. I think that also contributed to being the team's top scorer, and I was able to enter the matches with a positive image. It is very disappointing that we couldn't win today's match, but scoring goals is a positive aspect.
Q, the first point was connected to the goal through a narrow course with a loose ball.
A, Since we were losing, I first wanted to equalize. While playing with that mindset, the ball happened to fall right in front of me, and as a result of striking it cleanly, it led to a goal, so I’m glad about that.
Q, the second header seemed to be well prepared for the return.
A, I think I was well prepared to score in a good way today. Not just with heading, but also with the first goal, whether it was right, left, with my head, or from a loose ball, I was ready to throw my body to score, so rather than just being prepared for the header, I think it was the result of being well prepared overall.
Q: Please review the scene where you broke away from the opposing goalkeeper in the first half.
A, Throughout the season, finding space while connecting passes was a challenge, so thanks to the results of our daily practice, I was able to connect the ball well on the right side and deliver it into the opposite space. That space was one I wanted myself, and the ball came out at the timing I wanted, so it went just as I imagined and I think it was the result of practice.
Q, How do you feel about the sense of accomplishment when looking back on the entire season again?
A, as I mentioned earlier, I am satisfied that I was able to start the season in good condition and score many goals. It is a source of pride for me that there were several matches where I could share the joy of my goals with the fans and supporters, and I believe this will continue to support me going forward. I want to keep focusing on results from now on as well. Thank you for your support throughout the year.
<Koki TSUKAGAWA>
Q, what was it like to play against your former team?
A, It was frustrating, to say the least. There were parts where I was too tense, but it was truly an enjoyable time, and I’m glad I joined this team. I was also happy to be able to have such an intense battle again.
Q, What do you think were the key factors that determined the outcome of the match between teams that both claim to play similar styles of soccer?
A, the opponent was down to 10 players, so the situation was in our favor, but still, Kawasaki seemed to have stronger determination or something like that. They had the championship to fight for, while honestly, we had nothing at stake. I could feel that determination from them.
Q, After the match, you were talking with your former teammates. What kind of conversation did you have?
A, everyone cheered me on saying things like "Do your best," so I felt I need to work even harder.
Q, there were also voices from the fans and supporters of Kawasaki Frontale.
A, I am truly happy.
Q, How was it for you to transfer this season and look back on it?
A, Personally, the three months since my transfer have been fulfilling. I have been able to get involved in matches, and next, I want to work hard to be able to perform steadily throughout an entire season, to grow even more, to help the team achieve a higher ranking and win the championship, and to become that kind of player.
Q, did you put too much effort or did you overdo it today?
A, I tensed up on my shot and it went off somewhere, so I think I should have been able to handle those moments more calmly.
Q, There were also parts where the team was saved by forcing it in reverse. I thought it was good to put my body in and make it my ball, make decisive passes, and have a good sense of daring.
A, It is also one of my strengths, so I want to properly show it while also applying what I have learned and continue to grow even more.
Q, What did you feel the most when facing Kawasaki?
A, today turned into a special situation, but each individual is good at stopping and kicking, and I felt that they really have confidence, that they have confidence in their core.
Q, In terms of style, I think there are many things to learn, but how about that for next season?
A, There is much to learn, but now the foundation as a team is established. I believe each team has its strengths and each player has their own style, but while learning, I hope we can further develop the strengths of Tokyo.
Q, What do you think about the play where Sung Ryong JUNG was sent off and the ball was taken away from him? I think the feed from that scene was really good.
A, When Kento TACHIBANADA fell, I thought it was a foul, but since the contact wasn’t that strong, I figured Kento was probably trying to draw the foul, and the referee was watching carefully. In that situation, I clearly saw the space behind, so I just had to pass it properly. Ada was truly superb.
Q, When did you realize you were free?
A, When Mr. Akira Ienaga came close, I thought I would dodge him and pass it there.
Q, how was the first cross?
A, There were several players inside, and if I put in a good ball, Luiz PHELLYPE, ADA, and (Kyō) Kimoto were there, so I thought I would cross it.
Q, how was the match against Wakisaka?
A, We didn't really match up much in terms of the flow of the game, but he was as skillful as ever.
Q, Did you miss it?
A, I didn't have the luxury to feel nostalgic (laughs).
Q, Do you feel that you are able to create chances through consistent play?
A, I always play soccer with the mindset of wanting to make passes that directly lead to goals and do things that the opponent dislikes, so if it is perceived that I am able to make such plays, I am happy.
Q, there were many great starts. I think what I learned in Kawasaki is alive in FC Tokyo, how was today's play?
A, The tasks given to me are different from when I was at Kawasaki, but since coming to Tokyo, what is expected of me has changed, and I think my strengths have come out even more. I hope to improve the quality and be able to connect that to results.
<Kuryu MATSUKI>
Q, How did you approach this year?
I had a strong desire to start in J1 and during the camp, I felt confident. Coach Albert trusted and played me throughout the season, and although I couldn't live up to the high expectations, I believe I was able to do what the team needed.
Q, What are the differences between your first year fighting in high school and your first year fighting in the J-League?
In the J League, there is also the World Cup this year, so I think the season ended a little early, but it felt even earlier. It left the impression that the season ended quickly.
Q, As a young player who has attracted attention this season, I think you have been featured in the media and mentioned by various senior players. How did you feel about that?
A, the most helpful on the pitch are the senior players around me, so there were things to absorb from them and of course things to learn. As I am the youngest playing in the game, I felt that I had to express that on the pitch.
Q, I think this year was also as a rookie, but next year will be a season after fighting for a year, so please tell us your aspirations.
A, I want to be more ambitious and challenge the results next season.
Q, Please give a message to all the fans and supporters who have supported us for one year.
Thank you for supporting us throughout the season.
<Ryoma WATANABE>
Q, I think the second goal was a one-touch cross back, but that play looks simple but it's actually a very difficult play. I think it was a scene that showed the high level of skill, what do you think?
A, I only remember crossing the ball back aiming for Adailton, so I'm glad he was able to finish it.
Q, I think it was because I was playing on the left side that I was able to play in that position. Also, I think I showed the ability to create chances from any position, what do you think?
A, When I play on the left side, I am conscious of waiting wide, so I hoped to create chances with passes from Kazuya KONNO and Hotaka NAKAMURA. There was one time when I missed connecting with a cross from Mita, but through that play, I was able to grasp the distance and timing with the ball, so for the next play, I focused on that image.
Q, was it because of that play that you were able to score?
A, That's right.
Q, How do you look back on scoring an own goal?
A, Returning to that position is also one of my strengths, so I want to use today’s experience as valuable learning for the future. I believe that plays like that can be improved through experience, so I think I have learned something from it.
Q, Kawasaki takes positions while looking at the opponent's position and plays soccer. I think FC Tokyo could have competed with the same playing style, but what do you think?
A, Because it is the same soccer style, I was able to play while somewhat understanding the positions, places, directions, and how the opponent would come, so I want to firmly connect that to opportunities.
Q, How was the past year for you, starting and ending in Kawasaki?
A, I played as a side back in the opening match, and at that time, it was a somewhat frustrating start. I believe it was a season in which I could have done much more throughout.
Q, Is there a difference you felt because of the same soccer style?
A, Because it is the same soccer style, we were able to play while somewhat understanding the positions, locations, directions, and ways the opponent would come, so I want to firmly turn that into opportunities. One point is that, both in a good way and a bad way, we do not take risks. The style of soccer is to connect from the back and kick long, and even if we kick long, if we can control the ball there, we can then connect to an attack. However, since we maintain possession including the goalkeeper, I think that aspect is different from Kawasaki.
The scene of the second goal conceded is an example, but I believe that because it was us, a mistake happened there and we conceded. So, I think this is not an issue for each individual player, but a challenge for the entire team, and I hope we can continue to work on it.
