Rematch...

The J2 League has quickly entered its second round since the last match, with FC Tokyo reclaiming the top spot with an impressive four consecutive wins. However, the teams from first to third place are tied with 20 points, continuing a fierce competition. The opponent for this day is Niigata, who achieved a remarkable seven consecutive wins at the start of the season, creating a whirlwind in the J2 League. After suffering three consecutive losses, they have now fallen to second place, but they are well-known for their solid defense and sharp counterattacks, making a tough battle expected. In the previous match (3/28), they narrowly lost due to a penalty that can only be described as a 'nightmare,' so this match, being a revenge match, was approached with a strong determination to win. Additionally, on this day, over 80 fans joined the first bus tour of the season to invade the 'enemy territory' of Niigata, and when combined with the number of fans who joined them at the venue, they formed a large cheering group of about 130 people, repeatedly chanting 'Tokyo! Tokyo!' On the other hand, Niigata also saw their highest attendance of the season, with over 9,000 fans filling the stands, and with temperatures reaching 25 degrees, reminiscent of midsummer, the Niigata City Athletic Stadium was enveloped in an unusual heat.

Unable to create a chance...

In the first half, Tokyo tried to build up their attack by constantly giving the ball to Almir as usual, but Niigata was wary of the vertical passes from Almir to the front line and cut off every ball with thorough pressing. As a result, Tokyo was unable to create points on the front line and could not find a way to attack. Occasionally, Fujiyama from the left and Yukihiro from the right attempted to dribble and make a final pass, but they were unable to create any real chances against Niigata's determined and passionate play. On the other hand, Niigata quickly countered after winning the ball and created chances with sharp attacks.

Crying again for PK...

Entering the second half, Tokyo aimed to regroup by assigning Koike, who has been active as a link between offense and defense in recent matches, to the defensive midfield position and moving Almir forward to create attacking rhythm. Koike faithfully and easily distributed the ball, allowing Almir to move freely in the front line. As intended, Almir functioned as a focal point in the attack, and gradually Tokyo's original rhythm began to emerge. However, just at that moment, Tokyo was caught off guard. In the 3rd minute of the second half, as everyone was focused on the attack, the ball was stolen on the left side, and a superb long pass was sent behind the weakened Tokyo defense. A speedy Niigata forward broke free and seemed poised for a solo run, but defender Komine caught up and fiercely contested the ball. As they entered the penalty area, both players tangled and fell. The referee ruled it a foul by Tokyo, awarding a penalty kick. In the previous match (on March 28), a similar situation resulted in a penalty, and that single point became the decisive goal leading to defeat, so the