<Match Preview>
Three days before the first match of the Levain Cup Prime Stage quarterfinals, Tokyo revealed their poor compatibility with Avispa Fukuoka, having lost to them in the league with a record of 3 wins, 3 draws, and 8 losses. In the Levain Cup, they were also in a losing position with a record of 1 win, 3 draws, and 2 losses against Fukuoka before the first match.
In the first match played at home at Ajinomoto Stadium on the 6th, they broke the jinx and won 1-0, bringing their record in the Levain Cup to an even 2 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses. Considering that Fukuoka had not been able to win a single game in the 8 matches since their promotion to the 2021 season, this can be seen as a big step forward for Tokyo.
In the first match in Tokyo, we looked back at the previous league match and made a system change to have a defense line of three people. This allowed us to create an advantage on the sides and successfully eliminate Fukuoka's vertical pressure in both offense and defense. In defense, we also closed the spaces, including the wing backs, and thoroughly took care of the opponent's quick attacks. In offense, we were able to prevent the press and smoothly build up our plays.
After taking the lead with Adailton's goal, there were moments in the second half where we had to face the opponent's momentum head on. However, we recognized the importance of winning in the tournament and prioritized a realistic battle of first focusing on our defense and getting results. In this tournament where the score is determined by the total of two matches, it can be expected that the result of the first match will have a significant impact on the second match.
How will Tokyo take advantage of their early lead? The key will be to carefully assess Fukuoka's approach.
For Fukuoka, it is the second game to fight at home. If they come out with the home advantage, Tokyo will need to make good use of the space behind them. On the other hand, if they try to bring the game to a solid one and use tall foreign players in power plays, they will need an aggressive defense that blocks the passing points to the front line with a high press and controls the defense line to keep the opponent's forward line away from the goal.
Tokyo, who broke the jinx against Fukuoka and is aiming for their first Levain Cup victory in three tournaments, will bring back a ticket to the semifinal from Fukuoka.
[Interview with Peter CKLAMOVSKI]
Q, we changed our formation in the previous match against Avispa Fukuoka with a short preparation period and achieved victory.
A, the players showed very good movement to perform as a team. It was a match with many good elements and plays worthy of victory. It is important to evolve what was good and make improvements. We controlled the game in the first half. We had the momentum, and within that, there were good movements and coordinated plays, which led to the opening goal. In the second half, I think we were able to control the game from a different perspective than in the first half. One point that needs improvement is to express the style of play from the first half also in the second half. If we can improve on that, I believe we could have scored additional goals in the second half. There was also good defense as a team, and I think it was good that we were able to finish the match without conceding a goal. After the first leg, we are, so to speak, in a halftime situation. For the second leg, we just have to fight to secure victory on Fukuoka’s ground.
Q, I think the addition of formation options has increased the tactical choices.
A, it was a good challenge for us, and the players executed it well. We want to grow into a team that can do various things depending on the situation. We have been able to take good steps forward, but there are still many areas we need to improve. As a team, we want to continue moving in the right direction while addressing these challenges. When considering what is most important and how to maximize our potential, the choice we made in the recent match against Fukuoka was the right one.
Q, please let us know if there were any challenges that the team faced when approaching the game with a 3-back formation.
A, considering our current situation, I thought that approaching the game with a 3-back formation was the best choice. Also, taking into account the two days between matches and the players' condition, it was a decision aimed at allowing the players to perform at their best and to take control both offensively and defensively, helping the team to evolve. I believe it is important to continue challenging various things from here in order to further progress.
[Player Interview]
＜Naoki KUMATA＞
Q, if you have any impressions or realizations from the first match of the quarterfinals, please let us know.
A, I started from the beginning, but personally, I felt I couldn’t do anything and realized there are still many things I need to work on. One of my issues was that my passing mistakes stood out during the attack. However, I believe it was meaningful to be able to play for nearly 90 minutes. I want to work hard to be able to participate in the upcoming matches. Regardless of the form, a player who can score goals is important as a forward, and I think it’s just a matter of building that up through practice. If I don’t demonstrate it in practice, I don’t think my teammates will give me the final pass during the game, so I want to focus on the results.
Q, in the previous match we played with Adailton and Dawhan as the two forwards. What were you conscious of?
A, I myself have played many times as one of the two forwards in a two-striker formation, so I found it easier to play. Defensively, the two players up front can press the ball together, and offensively, if the two up front coordinate well, they can complete the attack. How the two strikers engage in both offense and defense is important, and I believe they can bring out qualities different from a single striker.
Q, not only attack but also high-intensity defense was often seen.
A, I believe it is necessary to further improve from here. Not only defense, but as a forward, I also want to raise the quality of my attacks. I want to increase the number of times I touch the ball in front of the goal and be conscious of showcasing my strengths.
Q, please tell me what we need to do to improve our winning percentage in away games in Kyushu as a team.
A, I am aware that we have not been able to win away games in Kyushu. Regarding that, I believe it is important not just for me but for the entire team to secure the victory firmly. We just fight for the team and for the win.
<Ryoma WATANABE>
Q: In the league matches and the Levain Cup, you will face Avispa Fukuoka in three consecutive games. What do you see as the opponent's characteristics and style of play?
A, I felt that there was a mismatch in the league match on the 3rd. On the pitch, it seemed like they were effectively using gaps to receive the ball, but when I reviewed the footage later, that wasn’t really the case. I sensed some misalignment in defensive positioning and an atmosphere of prioritizing defense first. If we can maintain an aggressive attitude and defend firmly to catch the opponent, like in the match on the 6th, a good flow will naturally emerge, and our play will improve.
Q, In the first match of the Levain Cup, you came on as a substitute in the midfield position. Did you have many tasks to fulfill both in attack and defense?
A: Of course, Coach CKLAMOVSKI instructed me to "score additional goals," but when thinking about connecting to the second match, I believed that not leaving gaps in defense was the top priority. In the previous match, I was especially conscious of firmly recovering second balls. Whether I start or come on as a substitute in the second match, I want to continue with this mindset.
Q, it seemed that Watanabe's own characteristics were further enhanced by playing in the attacking midfield or central midfield position.
A: I believe that when I have options in all directions, I can bring out my strengths. I think this is a position where many of my positive qualities can be demonstrated.
Q, With the advantage of winning the first match, how do you want to proceed with the game?
A, regardless of finishing the first match with a 1-0 lead, I believe the team should play offensively. If even a slight defensive mindset emerges, we risk conceding goals by inviting the opponent’s attacks. I want to show plays where we aggressively go for goals and take shots on the first play. Personally, I am not concerned about the fact that we have not won away against Fukuoka so far. Having won the first match, I feel the team can approach the second match with a good sense. I want to cherish this good feeling and inspiration.
