January 24 Practice Match vs. Vissel Kobe
On the final day of the Okinawa Itoman camp, a closed practice match (4 periods of 45 minutes each) was held against Vissel Kobe at Nishizaki Athletic Stadium, ending with a total score of 2-1.
At 22 minutes into the first period, the team connected passes smoothly from the back line, and finally Marcelo RYAN shook the net. They succeeded in taking the lead with a brilliant combination involving multiple players.
Furthermore, at 9 minutes into the second period, Keita ENDO skillfully broke behind Kobe's high line and pushed the ball in to score an additional goal.
At 18 minutes into the fourth period, a mistake in our own half led to conceding a goal, but after that, all players worked hard. We maintained the lead over Kobe in the total score and concluded the 13-day camp.
Post-match Player Comments
<Marcelo RYAN>
Q, the last play was a defense that reminded me of Diego OLIVEIRA's playing days.
A, I believe that everyone, including myself, was able to contribute to a good match. I think there were a few more chances to score, but overall, I believe we were able to proceed with a very good performance.
Q, please look back on the scoring scene.
A, it was a goal that started from the defensive midfielder. We were able to successfully connect the ball that came from the right side to the goal.
Q, looking back, what kind of 13 days did you spend?
A, I believe we were able to build very good relationships both on and off the pitch. The communication during the camp also led to good teamwork in our play. Since we were able to have good matches in all three practice games, after returning to Tokyo, all that remains is to prepare for the league opener.
<Divine OTANI>
Q, what kind of time was the 13-day Okinawa camp for you?
A, it was a camp where I once again realized the areas where I am not yet up to professional standards. I want to take the understanding that if I don’t work much harder, it will be tough to compete in the professional world, as a positive motivation.
Q. I don’t think the content was all about reflections, including the practice matches.
A. (In the practice match against Kobe) I usually overthink things and it doesn’t go well, but today I played as I felt and it went in a good direction. Since I kept making mistakes during practice, I realized once again that if I play freely without overthinking, there are parts where I can be effective. From the next practice onward, I want to play without overthinking too much.
Q. Everyone who has been promoted from the academy to the top team is aiming to be part of the squad for the league opening match.
A. I myself am definitely aiming for that as well. I haven’t given up on not only making the bench but also starting the match. I want to give my all over the next two weeks to achieve that.
<Rio OMORI>
Q. Please tell us your thoughts after finishing the Okinawa camp.
A. Although it was a short camp, I was able to understand the team’s intentions quite well, so I think it depends on how much I can adjust. In defense, I want to match the intensity and basics with a bit more speed, and when moving the ball, I want to take it a step further by improving the precision and timing of how I use those around me.
Q. There were also plays that led to good appeals.
A. Due to my position, I think it’s difficult to drastically change my standing all at once. I want to firmly do what I can do within myself, and I believe there are more things I can do. Since it’s a short season, I’m in a position where I have to produce results in a short period, so I want to reflect properly and keep working hard.
Kota Tokiwa
Q. Didn’t this camp become a good opportunity to showcase yourself?
A. As I mentioned before the Okinawa camp started, I came here to each practice with the determination as if it were an official match. I thought the only way was to overturn the hierarchy during the camp, so I believe today’s practice match also led to a good start and good play. There were parts I was satisfied with as well.
Q, There were also plays that contributed to scoring.
A, For me, it was something necessary to reach the next level. It wasn’t an assist, but I was able to create the key pass just before that. That was something that didn’t exist in the 2025 season, so I feel it’s a part where I have grown. It’s also a positive factor, so I believe I can increase the number of times, not just that one instance. I’ve also been able to show the characteristic play of moving forward after winning the ball, so I think it’s an improved aspect.
FOCUS ON - Today's Shot -
"FOCUS ON" selects one photo taken by the official photographer. On the final day of the camp, a back shot of Sei MUROYA was chosen.
He continued to make his presence felt in the training and practice matches during this camp. The man who speaks with his back led the team with each and every play.
In the 2026 season as well, Sei MUROYA will fight stronger and fiercer than anyone else. He will lead FC Tokyo to victory──because he has once again donned the blue and red.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
