Match Review
The Meiji Yasuda J1 Century Vision League has entered the second half of the season. As Tokyo currently holds provisional2nd place, just one more match played than the top-rankedKashima Antlers who are chasing with a 3-point gap, Tokyo is in a situation where they must keep accumulating 3 points and continue winning in order to stay in the title race and to apply pressure on Kashima.
This week’s away game against YokohamaF. Marinos at Nissan Stadium saw two changes to the starting lineup from the previous match. The goalkeeper was Kim Seung-gyu, and the back line from right to left consisted of Sei MUROYA, Alexander Scholz, Hayato Inamura, and Kento HASHIMOTO. The midfield duo featured Kouta Tokiwa and Kento HASHIMOTO, who returned after suspension in the previous match. The attackers were placed with Keiin Sato on the right and Keita ENDO on the left, while Marcelo and Ryunosuke SATO formed the same vertical two-forward partnership as in the previous match. Despite it being April, the match kicked off at 3:03 p.m. under strong sunlight with a temperature of 24.5 degrees Celsius.
1st―Kane's Sharp Counterattack Goal Just Before the End of the First Half
From the start, the opponent launched attacks mainly based on simple long balls, resulting in a period where the ball rarely settled. Amid this, Ryunosuke Sato dropped to a deeper position to become the starting point of the attack, and from Inamura's accurate long feed, Keita Endo aimed to break free, gradually increasing plays that seemed likely to lead to chances. In the 21st minute of the first half, from a pass by Ryunosuke Sato, left-back Kento HASHIMOTO overlapped, then connected to Endo, creating a shooting opportunity.
Yokohama FM attacked mainly with counters and long balls.In the 22nd minute of the first half, Amano broke through with a dribble and fired a left-footed shot that hit the crossbar, but Tokyo showed focused team defense to protect their goal, and gradually Tokyo held the ball longer and pushed forward.
Tokyo, who had struggled to create shooting opportunities, at the 43rd minute of the first half, Kento HASHIMOTO took a free direct volley from a loose ball off Ryu Sato's right corner kick. Although it narrowly went over the crossbar, it marked their first clear chance.
Then, at the 45th minute of the first half, Ryunosuke Sato intercepted the ball in his own half and simply passed it forward to Kaua, prompting the entire team to launch a swift attack into the opponent's territory. Kaua carried the ball over a long distance with a dribble and delivered a delicate final pass, which Keita Sato, breaking through the center, skillfully finished with a one-touch left-footed shot. With a powerful and precise counterattack, Tokyo shook the net and succeeded in taking the lead away from home. The first half ended as it was. Scoring the opening goal at a good moment, Tokyo went into halftime leading 1-0.
2nd―Kauan's Goal Adds One More Point and Secures Victory in 90 Minutes
From the start, Tokyo aggressively aims for an additional goal. With Ryū Sato's vertical breakthrough and Kaua's powerful in-front shot, they relentlessly attack the YokohamaFM goal. In the 9th minute of the second half, on a counterattack, Endo powerfully advanced through the center and passed to the left. Here, Ryū Sato crossed back with his left foot, but unfortunately it did not connect with Kaua, who was running in on the far side, and they could not finish the second goal.
Continuing into the second half, at the 14th minute, the ball was connected from deep in their own half, and Kei Sato made a long through pass forward on the right side. Sei Muroya broke free and advanced with the ball, then Endo ran in and aimed with his right foot on the opposite side, but the shot went over the crossbar, missing a golden opportunity.
The moment of joy came for Tokyo, who had created many close chances, at the 19th minute of the second half.Sei MUROYA dribbled through the center of the pitch and delivered a through pass to the left front. Receiving it, Lucas RIAN advanced forward and powerfully struck a spectacular goal with his left foot! The blue and red once again scored the long-awaited additional goal from a sharp counterattack, successfully extending their lead to two goals.
In the unexpected heat, Tokyo refrained from high pressing and succeeded in finishing off with effective counters. They firmly held their position to block the opponent's attacks, mixing counters and possession to take control and manage the game tempo. However, a brief lapse occurred just after repelling the opponent's attack, allowing Kato to pick up the loose ball and score a long-range shot, resulting in their first conceded goal in four matches.
Here, Tokyo made their first substitution. Kei KOIZUMI was brought in as right side back, replacing Muroya and Ryu Sato, and Teruhito NAKAGAWA was sent in as one of the two forwards.
Tokyo, aiming to extend their lead once again. At the 33rd minute of the second half, they earned a direct free kick opportunity on the right side, where Kento HASHIMOTO’s left-footed kick induced an own goal by the opponent, adding another point. Although there was a possibility of offside and VAR support was involved, the goal was ultimately allowed, bringing the score to 3-1.
At the 40th minute of the second half, the second substitution was made. Endo and RIAN were switched out for Leon NOZAWA and Divine OTANI. NOZAWA was brought in as the left attacker, and OTANI as the forward.At the 45th minute, the final substitution saw Kei Sato replaced by Fuki YAMADA, entrusting him with closing out the match.
In the 6 minutes of second-half stoppage time, even as the opponents pressed aggressively with a power play, we firmly contained them and the final whistle blew. Amidst the cheers of the blue-red family who had gathered away from home in the “city that never sleeps,” we successfully secured the victory over the full 90 minutes, and despite having played two more matches, managed to equal the points of the league leaders Kashima, who have a match scheduled on Sunday.
Interview with Coach Rikizo MATSUHASHI
Q. Please summarize today's match.
A, Considering the full 90 minutes, it was certainly a very difficult game. However, I believe that ultimately securing 3 points is something we can build on going forward. There will be a bit of a break, but we will prepare well and take on the next match.
Q. In the previous match, there was an impression that the attack was not fully effective, but in this match, you scored the opening goal on a counterattack. Has there been any change in the team?
A. We haven't specifically trained to score in that kind of situation, but depending on how the opponent plays, we have prepared a bit for simple attacks behind their defense or to stretch their defensive line. However, in the first half, we struggled to use build-up play effectively, resulting in many long balls and a situation where we couldn't win second balls. Even so, that pattern is one of our strengths, so by successfully finishing it, I think we were able to shake the opponent's mindset a little.
Q. How do you view the players' spacing and movement in terms of coordination and teamwork?
A. The image you mentioned hasn’t really emerged fully in my mind yet. Conversely, I think this is still an area that needs a lot of work. The players have a very strong forward mindset and a desire to create surprises. However, sometimes their movements are ambiguous—whether they are dummy runs or genuine receiving runs—and when they are not chosen, it leaves the players behind them out of position. True coordination only emerges when players understand their positioning, width, and how the opponent’s defense is closing in, so I feel we weren’t quite able to show that yet. But if the players feel that way, I want them to keep working on it.
Q: The goal came from a counterattack, but was that an intentional strategy?
AThere are many players who are naturally good at that style of play, and when the opponent sets up a solid block like in the previous match, it can be difficult to break through. It is important to be able to switch between both approaches while still challenging, and this time we did not miss the situation. I believe that reflects their potential.
Q. How do you view the scene of the conceded goal?
A. I can't say we saw everything clearly, but it also looked like the player who entered the block slightly stepped aside. I think it comes down to very fine details, such as how much pressure can be applied at the moment the shot is taken. While there are parts of our defense that have been built up, to improve further it is necessary to completely shut down opponents on an individual level. I believe we still have a lot to build on.
Q. How did you make adjustments regarding the points where the build-up did not go well?
A, While talking with the goalkeeper during the match and ultimately leaving the final decisions to him, there were too many long balls in the first half. Because of that, even when there were points where we could have freed ourselves, we couldn’t use them, and the play became monotonous. I think we were able to gradually correct this in the second half. It’s important to skillfully switch between long passes and short passes to change the opponent’s focus. Such flexibility is necessary.
Q. There were also opportunities to aim for additional goals from good ball recoveries, but what are the challenges going forward?
A As I mentioned at the start of the season, how many goals we can score in this formation will be the key to increasing our 3-point wins. While the final ideas rely heavily on individuals, it is important that we stay calm when the opponent is flustered and always try to play against their expectations. I believe that is crucial to improving our success rate.
Player Interview
Player Kei Sato
Q. That was a wonderful goal.
A. It was a tough match, and although the team couldn’t quite do what we wanted, we had been aiming for counterattacks in practice even when being pressed, so when the chance came, I gave it my all and sprinted.
Q, You started as a right-side midfielder, but your positioning during the scoring scene was like that of a forward.
A, Marcelo RYAN found himself in a one-on-one situation, and I thought that if I could outrun the player in front of me, it would definitely create a chance. I ran desperately and pushed forward into the area in front of the goal.
Q, you scored when playing as a forward, but I believe this is your first goal while playing as a midfielder. Did the good feeling from the goals you scored as a forward help you?
A, I think the scoring sense has come since those two goals (in the away match against FC Machida Zelvia). It’s a feeling of knowing where to move in to score. I’m glad to have scored again after a while.
Q. Rather than crossing over, was it better to make a run on an underlapping route inside?
A, RIAN’s dribbling route was on the side, and Keita ENDO was also running wide outside. Because there was an opponent player drawn to ENDO, the inside route was wide open, and since I saw that, even if I wasn’t chosen, I ran thinking, “I hope RIAN picks me.” At that moment, our eyes met, and I felt, “The pass is coming.” While at top speed, my trap slipped, and at first I tried to shoot with my right foot, but I successfully switched to my left foot and slotted it in.
Q. It seemed like the goal just before the end of the first half changed the flow of the match.
AI think that goal was quite significant. Until then, we were being pushed back by the opponent and it was pretty tough. We also struggled to keep possession of the ball, and the weather was hot... Scoring under such difficult conditions is a sign of our growth.
Q. I think you were able to successfully break through behind Yokohama F.Marinos' high defensive line with your passes.
A, the first half was really tough—I barely remember any goals being scored (laughs). The first half really didn’t go well. Even so, we stayed composed and defended with our bodies, which paid off, and I believe the goal was the result of everyone defending together.
Q. Was it because you were able to make good adjustments at halftime that you were able to exploit the space behind the opponent?
A, That was the result of those adjustments. Also, because of the goal in the first half, I think everyone felt mentally much more at ease.
Q. In the second half, it seemed like the whole team was playing very energetically.
A, Unlike the first half, our positioning and transitions were quick, leading to a completely different flow of the game. However, I wish we had played like that from the first half. This was the first match of the season in the heat, so it’s understandable that we weren’t fully accustomed to it. Winning such a tough match is a sign of our growth.
Q, You have now matched the top-ranked Kashima Antlers in points.
A, I think we are under pressure.
Marcelo RYAN
Q: Please review today's victory.
A, in the first half, there were parts where we struggled to win the ball, press effectively, and build up play. It was not a good flow, but even so, we were able to score. At halftime, we received precise instructions from the coach, and I think we were able to regroup in the second half. We found our rhythm, scored additional goals, and were able to secure a good victory.
Q: You had a performance with 1 goal and 1 assist. Please look back on the goal scenes.
A, Ryunosuke SATO applied pressure and stole the ball for the first goal, which then came to me. I carried it myself, and finally Keisuke SATO finished it. I think it was a very well-executed goal won through great teamwork. For my goal scene, Sei MUROYA gave me a wonderful pass, and I smoothly moved to the left and controlled the ball, allowing me to finish with good timing and a good feel. I am very happy about my goal, but above all, I think the most important thing is that we won.
Q, today was a match where the counterattack worked well. Wasn't it a scenario that also brought out the best of Kaua's strengths?
A, as part of our team style, we focus on quickly attacking after winning the ball. I think it was good that we were able to finish decisively in that aspect today. We had several chances, so it would have been even better if we had converted more of them. We want to keep working towards the next match.
Q. How is your combination with Ryunosuke SATO?
A. I think our combination has improved compared to last time, and I feel very positive about it. Since our playing styles are different, we complement each other while playing. If we continue to practice more, I believe we can build an even better relationship.
Q. What will be important going forward as you chase the top-ranked Kashima Antlers?
A. Rather than focusing on the opponent, I think we just need to win each match one by one to get there. There will be a bit of a break, but first we want to rest well and then prioritize winning the next important game.
Q, Despite being an away game, many fans and supporters gathered. Please share a message.
A, Even today, despite being an away game, many fans and supporters cheered us on. It gives us strength, and we thank you for fighting alongside us. Please continue to fight with us in the upcoming matches as well.
Kento HASHIMOTO
Q,Regarding the team’sthird goal,the scene that induced the own goal, what was your intention when you took the free kick?
A, We had researched beforehand that the opponent’s defensive line was high, so I thought that if I could drop the ball in front of the goalkeeper, something might happen,and that’s why I kicked it that way.
Q, so it went as planned, right?
A, in the end, yes. Ideally, I would have liked to connect with a teammate, but even so, I’m glad it led to a goal.
Q. How did you feel the moment the goal was scored?
A.The first half was tough, and since Tokyo had been said to struggle to score from set pieces until last season, I was very happy that a goal was created from a set piece I took.
Q. How do you feel about earning 3 points in such an important match for the team?
A. I think being able to win within 90 minutes is significant. Although the match was not the best in terms of content, being able to secure the win was very important.
Q, There was mention that the first half was a difficult match, but specifically, what aspects were challenging?
A, I think we were unable to establish a rhythm in attack. The opponent marked our players closely, pushed their defensive line high, and their forwards applied pressing, as part of their countermeasures. Because we couldn’t make good progress from our build-up play against their defense designed to prevent us from holding the ball, it felt like they had possession for extended periods.
Q, I think the momentum gradually shifted in our favor, but was there any part where you changed your approach yourselves?
A, At halftime, there was talk that we needed more moments to control the game, so we consciously addressed that again and adjusted the overall positioning. Also, quite simply, I think the opponent couldn’t maintain this high press for 90 minutes in this heat, and their intensity dropped as a result.
Q, was Tokyo unable to apply a high press, or did they want to but couldn’t? Which is it?
A,It depends on the situation, but we do want to apply it. However, football isn’t always like that. Ultimately, scoring two goals on the counterattack from a mid press is a strength of this team. We have players who can outperform opponents in every phase without being fixated on possession, and we also have the quality to finish chances. I think it was very good to be able to show that side of us.
Q. Considering that you scored during a good period and were able to pull away from the opponent, can this be called a good match?
A. No, I think there were more issues today. Coach Matsuhashi also mentioned that how many goals we can score from quick transitions after winning the ball will be important throughout the season, and actually being able to score two goals from such situations today was significant. However, ideally, we would hold the ball a bit more ourselves, deliberately advance, and press in the opponent’s territory. Considering that, I feel that the content of today’s match cannot be said to have been good.
Q, at this point, although we have played two more matches, we have caught up to the top-ranked Kashima Antlers in points.
A, since the number of matches is different, there is nothing particular to say. We are aiming for the championship and are only focused on winning each match in 90 minutes. Therefore, rather than looking ahead, we want to focus on winning the next match again within 90 minutes.
