<Match Review>
In the previous match, Tokyo won 6-3 against Kashiwa Reysol, who are competing for the top spot, in an official game after a break of about 3 weeks. In this match, they faced Yokohama F.Marinos, who are also competing for the top spot, at Ajinomoto Stadium for their first home game in about a month.
Tokyo made two changes to their starting lineup from the previous match. Kuryu MATSUKI, who scored his second goal of the season as a starter in the previous match, will start from the bench, while Shuto ABE will start alongside Koki TSUKAGAWA. Hotaka NAKAMURA also made his first start since returning from injury at left back.
1st HALF - Conceded 2 goals by taking advantage of a momentary gap
The game continues with both teams possessing the ball and moving it at a fast pace, creating opportunities to bring the ball to the goal.
Tokyo used Kazuya KONNO, who ran quickly from the left side to the space on the right side in the 9th minute of the first half, to attack the opponent's goal. KONNO cut in and took a sharp curved shot, but the ball unfortunately hit the crossbar after passing the goalkeeper's outstretched hand.
In the 12th minute of the first half, Yuto NAGATOMO was judged to have fouled Nakagawa in response to the opponent's counter, resulting in a free kick near the penalty area. The opponent's well-aimed shot narrowly missed the goal.
In the 31st minute of the first half, as Yokohama was increasing their ball possession, they threatened the goal with a quick transition from defense to offense after a ball recovery. Shuto ABE, who had brought the ball into the opponent's penalty area, passed it to Erik, who was waiting to receive it. Erik shook off his marker in a one-on-one situation and took a shot that went between the defender's legs, but it was saved by the opponent's goalkeeper.
After that, as Yokohama continued to hold onto the ball, in the 40th minute of the first half, a corner kick from the left side was sent to the back near the goal, and Iwata was pressed by the player and conceded the first goal.
Tokyo, who immediately launched a counterattack, had player Konno send a cross ball from the right side to the opposite side in the 44th minute of the first half. Ryoma WATANABE, who had jumped behind the opponent, made a one-touch shot but missed the goal and went over it.
On the other hand, in the first half of 45 minutes, when the right side is broken through and a cross ball is put between the goalkeeper and defender in front of the goal, it cannot be cleared and is pushed in by Nakagawa player, widening the deficit.
As the team pushes forward, space is left behind, allowing for a counterattack from Yokohama. Just before the end of the first half, a looping shot is taken from outside the penalty area. The ball flies towards the goal, but Jakub SLOWIK makes a backstep and dives towards the ball, using his fingertips to redirect it and keep it out of the goal.
2nd HALF - Tokyo grabs a valuable 1 point with 2 goals from set plays
Tokyo, who wants to make a comeback, gets a chance in the 8th minute of the second half. They get a free kick in the left corner of the penalty area, and Kashif BANGNAGANDE, who came on for Nakamura in the second half, puts in a sharp cross ball in front of the goal. Tsukagawa picks up the ball in the right area of the penalty area where the opponent's clearance fell, and swings his left foot, scoring a ground shot in the bottom right corner of the goal, bringing the score to 1-2.
Tokyo, who wants to strengthen their counterattack mood, quickly made a substitution by replacing Abe with Matsuki, Konno with Adailton, and Diego Oliveira with Luiz Phellype.
This substitution brought the flow closer.
At 18 minutes into the second half, Tsukagawa heads in a ball from Matsuki's corner kick from the right side. The ball, which broke through the crowded area, flows into the bottom right corner of the goal, and Tokyo equalizes.
Tokyo, who intensified their attack, invaded the vital area from the left side while putting the ball diagonally forward in the 30th minute of the second half. In the end, Felipe received a pass just outside the penalty area and took a well-aimed shot, but it narrowly missed to the right of the goal. In the 37th minute of the second half, Adailton attempted a powerful volley shot from just outside the penalty area, but the sharp shot went just above the goal.
In the 39th minute of the second half, Adailton reacted to Watanabe's through pass. He broke through into the penalty area and faced the goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation, but his shot was stopped by the goalkeeper. Tokyo, who had been taking advantage of the opponent's gap with their build-up from the back, almost took control, but they couldn't finish their attacks and ended up losing the ball, leading to a counterattack from Yokohama. In the final stages of the match, both teams had open opportunities to bring the ball into the goal area.
In the 45+5 minute of the second half, a cross ball was put in front of the goal and Anderson LOPES was able to hit it, but it hit the crossbar and was unable to score.
In a match where either team could have scored the final goal, the game ended in a draw with both teams maintaining an attacking stance.
MATCH DETAILS
＜FC Tokyo＞
STARTING Ⅺ
GK Jakub SLOWIK
DF Yuto NAGATOMO/Yasuki KIMOTO/Masato MORISHIGE/Hotaka NAKAMURA (46': Kashif BANGNAGANDE)
MF Shuto ABE (58': Kuryu MATSUKI)/Keigo HIGASHI/Koki TSUKAGAWA (73': Seiji KIMURA)
FW Ryoma WATANABE/Diego OLIVEIRA (58': Luiz PHELLYPE)/Kazuya KONNO (58': Adailton)
SUBS
GK Go HATANO
FW Keita YAMASHITA
GOAL
8 minutes into the second half: Tsukagawa/18 minutes into the second half: Tsukagawa
<Yokohama F.Marinos>
STARTING Ⅺ
GK Yohei Takaoka
DF Ryuta Koike/Tomoki Iwata/Eduardo/Katsuya Nagato
MF Takuya Kida/Joel Chima Fujita (40th minute of the second half: Kota Watanabe)/Takuma Nishimura
FW Teruhito Nakagawa (16th minute of the second half: Marcos Junior)/Leo Ceara (24th minute of the second half: Anderson Lopes)/Elber (24th minute of the second half: Kota Mizunuma)
SUBS
GK Powell Obinna OBI
DF Ken MATSUBARA/Shinnosuke HATANAKA
GOAL
First half 40 minutes: Iwata/Second half 45 minutes: Nakagawa
[Albert PUIG ORTONEDA Interview]
Q: please review the game.
A: Naturally, since we were facing a team ranked above us at this moment, we expected it to be a difficult match. We played nervously for the first few minutes from the start, but after that, I think we continued to firmly control the game. However, the flow was interrupted for a long time due to the stoppage caused by the decision on whether it was a penalty kick or not. After that, we struggled against Marinos' high-quality high press, and there was a period when we found it difficult to stop them.
We still have challenges in moving forward with the ball in a coordinated manner. Of course, in the first few games of the season, we allowed simple long balls without maintaining the appropriate distance because we didn't want to take big risks. But now, we expect the entire team to move forward with the ball with a good sense of distance. The first half was a difficult situation where we couldn't do that.
The first goal against us was a big blow. It was a very difficult situation to be down 0-2 after conceding a second goal. Especially since they were the team that eliminated us last season by scoring a lot of goals, it was a tough match. Moreover, many players who experienced that match last season are still with us and were on the pitch today. Despite having that experience, the players showed their growth.
I believe our growth in football skills is progressing day by day. And not only in football skills but also mentally, I think we showed today that we have become stronger as winners. The first 30 minutes of the second half were a period when we firmly controlled the game. After leveling at 2-2, we had a decisive chance to take the lead. After that, the last 10 to 15 minutes of the match were a difficult time for us. It was a match against Marinos, who are competing for the top spot. In that sense, it is natural that there are tough moments toward the end of the match. Although it ended in a draw, many of the players on the pitch at the end were young players. Being able to play such a match together with young players like Kashiwa, Seiji KIMURA, and Kuryu MATSUKI was a positive for the team. I also told the players that I am not satisfied with not winning. I truly rejoice when we can win along with good play. And today, we were able to play well during certain periods. However, it ended in a draw. In that sense, it was not a completely satisfying match.
Q: In the last 15 minutes, you substituted player Tsukagawa with player Kimura and it seemed like you switched to a 3-back formation. It appeared that you were being pushed back from that point. How do you feel about that?
A, that substitution was a situation where Koki TSUKAGAWA had no choice but to be replaced. Another point is that it was a match against Marinos, who have a lineup full of excellent players. I want you to recall the away match. Even with a similar lineup, we were not able to respond well. We fully anticipated and were cautious that we would struggle against Marinos' side attacks in the final stages of the match. The adjustment was to deal with their weapon, the crosses, and by keeping Adailton and Luiz PHELLYPE up front, we were also aiming for chances from there. In fact, decisive chances were created. Always wanting to keep possession of the ball is the ideal form. However, the team has not yet grown enough to be able to do that. I believe I should always be a realist. We must face reality.
Q, the first 30 minutes of the second half were in Tokyo time, but the play was revitalized with player substitutions. What kind of effect did it have?
A: In the second half, especially with the simultaneous substitution of three players, the expected developments occurred. However, Marinos also made adjustments with each substitution and started playing better. The first 30 minutes of the second half were a good period, but maintaining such high-intensity play during that time also caused some fatigue. I would like to deploy players like Xavi or Iniesta to maintain possession without losing the ball, but I do not have them. Our substitutions worked, but on the other hand, Marinos also played effective cards, so we had to respond accordingly. With Koki TSUKAGAWA forced to be substituted, and considering the impact of Marinos’ substitutions, it was a second-half closing scenario where we had to adapt well. The ideal form is to keep possession with a back four while defending better—defending along with the ball. There are also situations where it is impossible to maintain ideal possession. That was the case toward the end of today’s match as well. Making adjustments to firmly defend the goal area where we were likely to struggle was also a tactical decision I had to make. This summer, our strengthening department made excellent reinforcements. One of them scored two goals today. Their addition has helped the team grow.
[Player Interview]
<Koki TSUKAGAWA>
Q, how do you reflect on the result of a draw?
A, I was also frustrated and not satisfied with the first goal conceded, but since the second goal was one that absolutely should not have been allowed, honestly, it really hurt. However, in the second half, everyone felt motivated to launch a counterattack, and I thought courage was important. There was a gradual emergence of courage to receive the ball and to attack. As everyone started receiving the ball more and increased the number of times we moved toward the goal, set-piece opportunities increased, and although I was the one who scored, I believe those two goals were scored by the entire team.
Q, please reflect on the first point.
A, I swung with full force, thinking there would be many people in front of the goal, but I believed something would happen if I took the shot, and the ball went to a good spot.
Q, how was the situation of the second point?
A, it was significant that Kuse delivered a good ball. We had shared as a team that the far side was a bit low, so I thought I could make it if I jumped in there, and a good ball came. I want to thank Kuse-san (laughs). I just told him, "Nice ball."
Q, the batting average was really high, wasn't it?
A, I had been crouching for a year and a half, so I was able to jump higher because of that (laughs). When I was substituted, I cramped up just from running a little and couldn’t come back, so I thought staying on the pitch would be a burden to the team, and I was substituted.
Q, I think the first goal was the first goal in the J1 League. The second goal seemed to be more joyful.
A, since we were losing, I didn’t really have the luxury to celebrate much, so I tried to look a bit cool with the next goal (laughs). The second goal was the equalizer, and since my teammates were happy too, I was honestly very glad.
Q, Go Hatano player and goal performance.
A, I’m always joking around with Go HATANO, and the performance was something we did on a whim, but it was really lame, so I didn’t want to do it (laughs). However, since Go did it, I did it just a little bit (laughs).
Q, it was a story about squatting for a year and a half.
A, many people have asked me about this, but it was a year and a half that changed my soccer life. That year and a half is filled with many emotions. Without that period, I wouldn’t be who I am now, nor would I be standing here. Honestly, even in today’s match, although it’s a different team, I feel like I was able to give back a little.
Q: Are you able to demonstrate your strengths?
A, I am able to score goals and I also have a boldness to my play, so I want to continue building on that here.
Q, how do you feel about the challenges as a team?
A, I think in the first half we couldn’t see forward well against the opponent’s pressure. Everyone was showing their faces, but we were overwhelmed by their pressure, resulting in many back passes. That became a trigger for Marinos to speed up their pressing. I think that was the reason we couldn’t move forward. However, I don’t think the spacing was bad. Although the distance to the center backs was a bit far, there was a moment when I successfully received a one-touch pass after moving into the side back position and was able to get in, so I think that is an area to work on. In the second half, the opponent’s pressing seemed to drop somewhat, creating space, and we were able to use that space well.
Q: How do you feel about scoring a goal?
A, scoring a goal is definitely what fans and supporters are happiest about, and it is also the greatest thrill as a soccer player. I wanted to score as soon as possible, so I’m glad I was able to score a goal.
<Keigo HIGASHI>
Q, please look back on the draw.
A, since it was a home game, I wanted to win, but I think there were also very positive aspects, so I want to continue like this.
Q: Was there a big difference between the first half and the second half?
A, the opponent was fresh in the first half, so there were times when we could build up play, but we also lost possession quite often. I think we were able to focus on what we needed to do and play the match today.
In the second half, the game opened up somewhat, and it became Tokyo's game, but I believe we need to build on these things. We don’t want to be satisfied with a draw; we want to become a team that can win matches like this.
Q, I feel the tenacity and perseverance from player Higashi, who has been holding on since the Kashiwa match.
A: Both attack and defense are important positions, so regarding defense, I want to reduce the number of goals conceded even more. Although our attack has been increasing in goals, these two aspects are two sides of the same coin. I also think it was important to keep the goals conceded to just one today, so I want to focus on the details and continue working on that.
Q, can you please tell me specifically what parts you feel positive about?
A, I think we have been able to connect the ball and move forward better than in the match at Nissan Stadium in the first half, so I view that positively. I want to continue this and challenge ourselves to turn it into wins.
Q: Which is greater, the positive aspect or the frustration of not being able to win?
A, personally, given that we lost 0-8 away last season, I approached this match with a strong determination. It’s disappointing that it didn’t lead to a win, but I believe it was a draw that can lead to the next step.
Q: How are you feeling in terms of fatigue despite the continuous appearances?
A, I had few opportunities to play in the first half of the season, and today as well, many fans and supporters cheered for us, and the club also boosted the atmosphere. I feel I must give my best, and I want to savor the joy of being able to play as a professional in every match and play with responsibility.
There are tough times, but I have come to realize more and more each year the importance of preparation and care. I also learn from senior players like Morishige and Nagatomo, who have worked on these aspects and have been able to play at the top level at their age.
<Yasuki KIMOTO>
Q: What adjustments did you make in the second half after conceding 2 goals in the first half?
A: First of all, it was a home game, and tactically as well, we thought we had to score to equalize and then come from behind. In the past, we might have ended up conceding more and more goals and losing, but we all agreed to put an end to that, stay strong-minded, and do whatever it takes to score, catch up to a draw, and then turn the game around.
Q, I scored two goals and caught up.
A: Both goals were from set pieces, but I think it would be great if we can make that a weapon as well. We were also creating chances during the flow of the game, so there were opportunities to turn the match around, and I believe the team is gradually improving.
Q: What were the things that the team was able to do and unable to do?
A: In attack, during the first half, although we wanted to value possession, things didn’t go well from the back, and we couldn’t circulate the ball effectively. Also, having conceded 3 goals in the previous match and 2 goals this time, while we didn’t lose, as a defensive player, I think we need to make corrections and prevent conceding goals.
As for what we were able to do, catching up to a draw gave us confidence above all, and I think it was good that we were able to stay positive mentally against the top teams.
Q: What kind of preparations do you want to make for the next game?
A: I think it’s important to continue doing what we have been doing so far. There’s no need to change what we should be doing, so while continuing that, we need to produce results and steadily improve our ranking. For the remaining matches, we want to unify our path and move forward together.
<Kuryu MATSUKI>
Q: What were you conscious of when taking the assist corner kick?
A: While watching the first half, the far side was quite open. I thought if I could kick the ball to a position on the far side where the goalkeeper couldn't reach, it might result in a goal. So, on the first corner, I aimed for Morishige, and on the second, I targeted the far side again. I'm glad it led to a goal.
Q: Player Tsukagawa said, "Thanks to Mr. Kuse."
A, No doubt about it (laughs)
Q, what were you conscious of while watching the first half of the game?
A, I believe substitute players are there to change the flow of the game. I was watching the first half thinking about what kind of play would be needed to shift the momentum.
Q, what do you think is necessary to win a game like today?
A, in the end, the individual aspect becomes important. The players who started the match fought tough for the full 90 minutes, so while continuing that, I want to raise awareness in practice about the part of finishing decisively at the end.
Q: Did you feel any difference compared to when you played in the first half of the season?
A, (In today's match) we had possession in the first half, but we struggled to make progress and I think we lost the ball often in our own half. However, I believe we definitely had better possession compared to when we played in the first half of the season, and I wanted to score goals during those moments when we were able to maintain possession.
<Seiji KIMURA>
Q, what instructions did you receive from the coach when you entered the game?
A, there were no clear instructions, but since I am a defensive player and understood the intention to switch to a five-back formation to avoid conceding any more goals, I entered the match with the mindset of not letting in any goals. The opponents have many skilled players, so I thought that if I rushed at the ball, I would easily be beaten, so I patiently held back and made sure to put my foot in at the final shooting moment.
From the moment I was on the bench today, I prepared myself by imagining that no matter the situation when I entered the game, I would immediately get fired up and fully focused. I believe that mindset was reflected in my play.
Q: I noticed your confident play. Has your previous experience influenced this?
A, I haven't had a lot of playing time in J2, but I think I was able to learn the mindset needed when entering a match.
Q, I was able to see the self-confidence that never loses the play at my feet.
A, I don't think that's the case. There were about two times I lost the ball, and there was a scene where the opponent broke through the side and escaped danger, as well as a scene where I was intercepted. It would have been better if those hadn't happened, but since I am consciously working on that in my regular training, I feel I need to eliminate easy mistakes.
Q: Were you able to demonstrate your defensive ability against Yokohama F.Marinos today?
A, I pride myself on my physical abilities, so I knew that Marinos had fast and strong players, but I must not lose when it comes to running, and I was prepared for that. I believe I was able to demonstrate that aspect firmly.
Q, I think it was your first time on the Ajinomoto pitch, were you conscious of that?
A, no, I was not conscious of that at all. There were many fans in the stands today, and the pre-match production was amazing. I had never played in such a large stadium before, and although I was overwhelmed, I felt that this is what playing at Ajinomoto Stadium is like.
Q, I have been on the bench for every match since my return. I feel like I have gained the trust of the coach.
A, I believe I have been recognized by the coach for fulfilling my role as a closer up to this point. Because the results have followed, I think that has led to my appearances in matches, so I feel I have earned that trust. However, compared to the two starters, I feel I still have many challenges in areas such as footwork, positioning, and anticipation, so I hope to continue refining those aspects.
