<Review of the previous match against Nagoya Grampus>
Tokyo struggled to break through Nagoya Grampus' compact defense and find a way to score. They conceded the first goal from a penalty kick in the first half, and then two more goals in the second half, resulting in a difficult 0-3 situation.
The players who were watching from the bench had been storing up their power for a game that wasn't going as planned. Finally, in the 33rd minute of the second half, a goal was scored that changed the flow of the game. The three men who were determined to make a comeback shook the goal net with all their might.
Receiving a quick throw-in on the right side, Yuto NAGATOMO connected with a sideways pass and dashed forward in an inner lap. Here, Takahiro KO provided a sharp through pass from a one-touch, and NAGATOMO, who broke into the pocket on the right side, slid the ball back to the center. This was finished off by Ryotaro ARAKI. The three players showcased their respective strengths and scored a counterattack goal with a quick offensive play.
A brilliant vertical pass by Takahashi, who opened up the situation with his precise aim and passing speed, a soulful attacking run by Nagatomo, who reflected on the assist scene, and a skillful sliding cross with his right foot by Araki, who deftly guided the floating ball from Nagatomo into the goal. It was a dazzling attack that seemed to show the path of the ball and the movement of the players as if with arrows, involving all three players.
"Number 71 looked back and said, "It may have looked like an easy shot, but the ball was also floating, so I had to be absolutely sure to score and I was able to make it with my nerves sharpened." For the point-getter who returned from the U-23 Japan national team, it was a blue and red comeback goal that appealed to "Taro, here it is".
Afterwards, Tokyo repeatedly created big chances and attacked the goal, but were stopped by the opponent's physical defense, good saves, and clearances on the goal line, and were unable to change the score, resulting in their first loss in 5 league matches. Player Araki said, "To go up, we have to finish those kinds of opportunities. I'm happy to have scored in my comeback match, but it's frustrating to lose. We can't dwell on it, so we need to switch gears right away and work together to help each other out."
Match Preview
In the previous match, they lost 1-3 to Nagoya Grampus and suffered their first defeat in five games. Manager Peter CKLAMOVSKI said, "We need to improve the part where we easily concede goals. It was a tough lesson, but we want to prepare for the next game and become a difficult team for our opponents to beat."
Tokyo unleashed 11 shots, surpassing Nagoya, and the attacking line remains in good form with a goal from player Ryotaro ARAKI, who returned to the game. However, it is clear that there are still defensive challenges. After the game, ARAKI said, "I am happy to score, but I am frustrated that we lost. However, there is no point in dwelling on it, so I want to switch gears quickly."
This round, we will face Yokohama F.Marinos at Ajinomoto Stadium. Although they have not won since the 2020 season, if we can firmly shut down their confident attack, it will be a big confidence boost for Tokyo. Taishi Brandon NOZAWA, who started in the starting lineup for the first time since the Kashima Antlers match on April 7th in the Nagoya match, said confidently, "We will definitely win and do our best to move up as a team." As those words suggest, the team's improvement and progress are being put to the test.
This week's matchday program is here
[Interview with Peter CKLAMOVSKI]
Q, Do you see reducing the number of goals conceded as the biggest challenge for the team right now?
A, It is important not to overcomplicate things. By addressing the issues sharply, I believe we can take a step closer to becoming the team we aspire to be. This is one of the key points that need improvement. I think there have been few scenes where we were significantly broken down by goals conceded so far, but it is necessary to respond properly in the moments just before. Conceding goals naturally makes it difficult to bring the match into the flow we envision. During the 90 minutes, unexpected situations and developments may arise, but it is important to skillfully avoid and overcome such difficulties while moving forward.
There were many difficult moments during the match against Nagoya Grampus as well. Even in defensive situations, we want to consciously reconnect offense and defense in a way that draws the momentum to our side. Matches where this connection works well pose a threat to the opponent. What is important is that we share the same awareness of what we need to improve and how we will refine it.
Q, Please tell us your impression of Yokohama F.Marinos, who you will be playing against this round.
A, They will likely become the Asian champions in a few days. They are a strong team. We have respect for all our opponents. I am excited to face a club that is expected to win the Asia Challenge. No matter who the opponent is, it is important first to play our football. Even if the momentum shifts to the opponent, controlling the whole game, playing with intention, and not neglecting hard work will directly lead to victory.
[Player Interview]
＜Henrique TREVISAN＞
Q, I think it is necessary to reduce the number of goals conceded in order to compete for the top position, considering the team's situation.
A, My role is to prevent the opponent's attacks, so as a center-back, I feel a great sense of responsibility. Both offense and defense are things the entire team must work on, and everyone needs to adjust together, but we defenders need to take the lead in making improvements to reduce goals conceded. I want to achieve a clean sheet and secure a victory in the next match.
Q, What is the biggest point of improvement to reduce points conceded?
A, communication according to the situation is the most important. There have been various cases, such as goals conceded due to mistakes and goals scored by the opponent committing more players to attack, but regardless of the form, I believe it is necessary for the defensive players to take the lead in communication and control from the back line.
Q, this week's match is against Yokohama F.Marinos.
A, we were defeated by Nagoya Grampus in the previous match, but before that, we maintained good form with 3 wins and 1 draw. I believe that by winning the next match against Yokohama FM, we can regain our rhythm and confidence.
Q, Yokohama FM has a strong lineup of individual forwards.
A, They are a powerful presence and a wonderful team with a high level of team cohesion. Securing 3 points from a high-quality team like Yokohama FM will undoubtedly boost our motivation. Overcoming a tough match as a united team and achieving victory will lead to greater confidence as a team.
<Ryotaro ARAKI>
Q: Please review the scoring scenes of the Nagoya Grampus match.
A, first of all, I have been able to play with a good feeling, and although I was away from team activities for several weeks due to my involvement with the U-23 Japan national team, I feel comfortable and find it easy to play. There were moments where I was able to express the plays I should make and the parts that are expected of me, but above all, I really wanted to win. Regarding the goal from the cross, it is a pattern the team has been working on, and it is also one of the attacking moves I have been consciously focusing on since coming to Tokyo. I think the number of such scoring scenes has been increasing this season as a team. It is important for the team to have established scoring patterns, and I feel the results of the efforts we have built up.
Q, Do you feel a great sense of accomplishment in scoring right after joining the team?
A, I was worried that things were going too well for me since the league started, and I also feel relieved to have scored immediately after rejoining the team like this. I want to continue playing well consistently.
Q, following multiple games with conceding goals, the previous match was the first loss since Sec. 9. Once again, what are the key points that need to be organized at this moment?
A, first of all, I want to reduce the number of goals conceded. It is significant that despite conceding so many goals, we are still in a position where we can aim higher, and since the battle for the top spots is very tight, I think there will be more matches decided by a one-goal difference or closely contested games. I believe that correcting the defensive issues is the key point to establishing ourselves among the top teams.
Q, Please give us your enthusiasm for the Yokohama F.Marinos match.
A, I believe that if we can win against Yokohama FM, the team’s momentum will pick up again, and matches following a loss are especially important regardless of the opponent. We will show our true style, play offensively, and go for the win.
<Diego OLIVEIRA player>
Q, Wednesday's Nagoya Grampus match was a disappointing defeat. How do you look back on it?
A, We did not play very well, but I don't think the difference in ability was as large as the 1-3 score suggests. Tokyo also had many chances, and I am not pessimistic. We want to correct the issues and prepare for the next match.
Q, After the Albirex Niigata match, you have scored 4 goals in 5 games. Diego OLIVEIRA, what changes have you personally felt?
A, I haven't particularly changed anything. The injury I sustained early in the league has healed, and my condition has recovered, which I believe is the main reason. Since returning to official matches after a long time in the Albirex Niigata game, I have been able to play my natural game without any restrictions, and that is why I have been able to keep scoring goals.
Q, What do you think Tokyo needs to do to compete for the top spot from here?
A, This season, the battle for the top spots is very close, and of course, we also have a chance to aim higher. However, during the season, it is more important to focus on the match in front of us rather than thinking about the title. If we keep up without falling behind the top teams, I believe the results will come in the end.
Q, to the fans and supporters, please share your enthusiasm for this match.
A, Yokohama F.Marinos is a very strong team, so I think it will be a tough match. However, we absolutely must win at home. The support from our fans and supporters always gives us strength. I have heard that the Brazil Festa will be held this matchday, and I want to deliver the joy of victory at the end of such a day.
