1/18 Practice Match vs. Sanfrecce Hiroshima
On the 7th day of the Okinawa Itoman Camp, a practice match (3 periods of 45 minutes each) was held against Sanfrecce Hiroshima at Nishizaki Athletic Stadium, resulting in a 4-3 score.
In the first period, despite the opposing goalkeeper’s excellent saves, the score was 0-1. Furthermore, in the second period, the team was unable to complete the plays leading to a finish, resulting in a scoreless period.
In the third period, they conceded a goal just 3 minutes after the start, allowing the lead to extend to 2 goals. However, it was just one minute later that Kizuna Kominato, who is scheduled to join from Hosei University during the 2026/27 season, ignited the counterattack with a skillful lobbed goal.
Furthermore, at the 11th minute, Kominato once again shook the net. At the 30th minute, Hiroshima temporarily pulled ahead, but the momentum-driven goal scorer did not stop. At the 37th minute, he scored again to complete a hat trick. One minute after leveling the score, a trainee unleashed a stunning long-range shot that pierced the top left corner of the goal, allowing Tokyo to successfully take the lead.
Post-match Player Comments
<Kizuna Kominato>
Q: Please review each of the scoring scenes.
A: For the first goal, after breaking free, there was no shooting angle, so I had no choice but to attempt a chip shot on the spur of the moment, and I think it was good that I was able to finish it with high quality. For the second goal, after I made a through pass and entered the penalty area, the ball luckily came to me in a rebound, but being in that position is also one of my strengths. I believe I have a better sense of scoring than anyone else, so I’m glad I was able to finish it properly. From there, I was determined to score the third goal, so from the moment I carried the ball into the box, I was only thinking about shooting. The finish went well, and I think all three goals were reproducible ones.
Q: You also participated in the 2025 season camp, and I think these three goals showed the growth you’ve made over the past season.
A: Last season’s camp was a bit frustrating as I couldn’t fully get into form, and throughout the season, I struggled to break into the competition within the team. This season, I want to show that I can perform well right from the start. During the camp, I want to make an effort to improve my standing, even if just a little.
Q: I believe what you demonstrated in the university league last season was proven here.
A: I played as a forward in university. Although the time I was given in today’s match was short, I was able to score two goals during that time. Personally, I want to compete as a forward player. I aim to become an irreplaceable striker.
<Leon NOZAWA>
Q: You recorded an assist.
A: In the situation that led to the assist, I had the option to go myself, and I also had the option to pass to a player making an underlapping run inside. Among those, I saw a player running behind in a position closer to the goal, so I chose that option. The quality of the pass wasn’t very good, but I think the player who finished it had high quality. I still need to improve the quality of my play, but being able to make a play directly leading to a goal is a step forward.
Q: While you were able to create good opportunities, what kind of challenges do you feel?
A: I think I still haven’t been able to fully connect with those around me in both offense and defense. Receiving the ball near the sideline and taking on opponents, or making runs behind them, creates space in the half-lane. I want to fulfill roles beyond what is expected of me. First, I want to make the most of my strengths while creating an environment where my style of play is easier to execute.
FOCUS ON - Today's Shot -
The official photographer chose this shot for today's 'FOCUS ON.' The play of Kouta Tokiwa, now in his second professional season, has clearly changed. On the monitor, synchronized with the shutter sound, photos of number 27 playing with his head held high are being saved one after another. During the 2025 season, when his playing opportunities were limited, he steadily accumulated solo morning practice and double training sessions. Such relentless effort, after all, did not betray him.
"Previously, I was receiving the ball in poor positions and was flustered after getting it. Through self-training, I was able to find spots where I wouldn’t be easily marked. I also have a sense that, by doing this, I’ve opened up an understanding of where I should stand by watching the opponents."
Expressing this sense of progress, his gaze naturally shifted forward.
"It took a year, but I finally stepped into the ring to compete for a regular spot. I have to build on my current play and deliver results in goals and assists. From here, I want to create a reason why it absolutely has to be me."
Behind these passionate words was a solid backbone built up over the course of a year.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
