This will be the first match in the J-League official game since September 2011. The previous match was held at the Japan National Stadium on January 1, 2012, which was the final round of the Emperor's Cup won by Tokyo. The match against Kyoto Sanga F.C., who has returned to the J1 League stage, is expected to have a similar development to the match against Sanfrecce Hiroshima, which was played on March 12.
Last season, Kyoto accumulated points steadily in the J2 League, and their strengths were high pressing from the front line and strength in duels. They were able to break through even against well-organized defenses with individual skills, and Peter UTAKA, who can leave opponents behind with his speed on counterattacks, was a standout player in the J2 League. The team's momentum and the presence of their ace have not diminished at all since moving to the J1 League.
In the match against Hiroshima, who aggressively approached the ball side with sharp starts, it was difficult to maintain possession of the ball and we were forced to play a tough game. Even after winning, Coach Albert emphasized the importance of focusing on ourselves rather than being satisfied with the result of today's match. He said, "This season, it is most important to continue to make efforts and grow, focusing on the content."
In that case, the key point of this Kyoto match is whether we can prove our growth against an aggressive opponent who also comes forward. Can we take the right position, move the ball to relieve the opponent's pressure, and gradually push them back? Tokyo wants to dominate the ball and the game, and reduce Utaka's involvement in the ball in order to shut him down.
"If we don't move fluidly and assess the opponent's movements while playing without conforming too much to a set pattern, it becomes difficult to maintain possession of the ball and play in a style that involves holding onto it."
Player Shuto ABE, who experienced the midfield press in the Hiroshima match, points out a lack of flexibility as a point of reflection. Of course, even though the style is similar, the players and formations are different. The phenomena that occur on the pitch cannot be said to be exactly the same as in the Hiroshima match. At that time, it becomes important for player ABE to emphasize "playing while considering and assessing the opponent's approach".
In the Levain Cup match against Júbilo Iwata, which took place three days after the Hiroshima match, we were at a numerical disadvantage in the second half. However, unlike the match against Cerezo Osaka in the J1 League, where we also played with one less player, we showed a stronger attacking posture and proved that attack is the best form of defense.
With each game, Albert Tokyo is steadily growing. He improves on his strengths and immediately solves any challenges. He will solve the challenges of the Hiroshima match and defeat Kyoto. He wants to leave his mark of growth in the ancient capital and bring back 3 points.
