Unbeatable Match

Today, Frontale was highly motivated. Until the last match, their record was an unexpected three consecutive losses at the start of the season. If they lost today's game, it would not only mean four consecutive losses but also the worst-case scenario of being defeated at home by their arch-rival, Tokyo, which naturally heightened their motivation. On the other hand, Tokyo, who came to play away, also lost their last match, making this a crucial game they could not afford to lose. The supporters in the goal area, the 'Aoa Army,' were more energized than usual, cheering fiercely as if this were their home ground. From the start of the first half, intense fighting spirit clashed. Frontale broke through with Tinga's tenacious and sharp dribbling and early crosses to the tall forward. Although the condition was not great, the presence of former Japan national team player Iwamoto was significant, as his kicks during set plays were accurate and sharp, creating numerous chances. In response, Tokyo created rhythm with Amaral's stable hold-up play and Okamoto's passionate drives. Both full-backs, Fujiyama and Umeyama, actively joined the attack from interceptions to create opportunities. In defense, Asari stopped Tinga with a fierce charge, while Sandro closely marked the tall forward Uemura, preventing him from working freely. As both coaches mentioned in the post-match press conference, both teams moved well, and the game was dynamic with a speedy exchange between offense and defense, making for an exciting match.

Amaral Big Explosion

The center of Tokyo's attack was undoubtedly "KING OF TOKYO" Amaral. In order to vent their frustration from the previous match, he actively got involved with the ball and created a stable post-play to set the rhythm for Tokyo. Then, in the 5th minute of the second half, Amaral ran into the ball that was connected by Fujiyama and Almir on the left side and scored a spectacular goal, securing a valuable lead. Tokyo continued to dominate the game and in the 18th minute of the second half, Okamoto broke through on the right side and took a shot. The goalkeeper deflected it, but Okamoto took another shot! The goalkeeper deflected it again and Amaral scored a spectacular second goal. The Tokyo Eleven celebrated in joy. At that moment, no one doubted their victory...

Unexpected tie. And a draw.

Tokyo is gaining momentum. However, Frontale also fiercely attacks centered around Tinga and Iwamoto, showing their determination. Then, in the 25th minute of the second half, Horiike jumps out to a cross from the right, and the punched ball goes to Iwamoto. Iwamoto calmly finishes this to close the gap to one goal. The back-and-forth battle continues, but the pace gradually shifts to Frontale. In their rush for a second goal, Frontale increases the number of times they connect with tall forward Uemura. Until now, they had somehow defended with Sandro and Horiike at the center, but finally, in stoppage time, Uemura drops the ball, allowing Takada to score the equalizer. The Tokyo eleven is stunned by the late equalizer. The first extra time of the season turns into a one-sided affair for Frontale. The momentum of the team that caught up at the end and the team that was caught up was clearly different. Frontale, originally a top-class team in J2 in terms of individual abilities, relentlessly threatens the Tokyo goal. In attack, Iwamoto builds up freely, and in defense, they put their bodies on the line with fierce fighting spirit. Tokyo also continuously brings in Kaburaki, Kobayashi, and Kagami, but in front of Frontale's determination, they could not change the tide, and the final whistle blew. In the post-match press conference, Frontale's coach Beto called today's game the best game. On the other hand, Coach Okuma said, 'We endured well without losing balance in the away pressure. It is shocking to have missed victory just a little bit, but the content is improving.' Indeed, it has improved significantly compared to the previous match, but it was a game that is regrettable. We hope for the next match against Montedio Yamagata.