Finally, on April 29th (Fri, holiday), Tokyo will play its first J-League match at the new Japan National Stadium.
At the old National Stadium, we have played many official matches since the first year of J-League membership. There have been memorable super plays and impactful events. Since achieving the long-awaited title, Tokyo has won all titles at the National Stadium, symbolizing the deep connection between Tokyo and the National Stadium.
Our National Stadium.
This is TOKYO.
Before taking a new step at the National Stadium, let's look back on the footprints and memories that have been left at the previous National Stadium, along with photos from that time.
Encounter with the Galactic Legion in 2003
[Match Information]
Suntory Dream Match
FC Tokyo 0-3 Real Madrid
After the 2002 World Cup, it's Real Madrid next.
Despite the observations in the soccer industry, "El Blanco" (meaning "white" in Spanish, a nickname for Real Madrid) had become a major boom in Japan. One factor contributing to the boom was the increased popularity among the general public, as David Beckham gained national popularity leading up to the previous year's World Cup. Additionally, the frequent broadcasting of overseas soccer on satellite TV also contributed to its rising popularity among the core fan base.
In such a match against a globally popular club, FC Tokyo has secured tickets for SOCIO members. Annual ticket holders were able to obtain tickets that are difficult to acquire, and rushed to our home, the Japan National Stadium.
Despite the atmosphere in the stadium and the media coverage being biased towards the other side, and unfortunately it was raining, the blue and red warriors on the pitch were fired up.
The starting lineup is Yoichi DOI, Akira KAJI, Teruyuki MONIWA, Ryuji FUJIYAMA, Jo KANAZAWA, Fumitake MIURA, Masashi MIYAZAWA, Mitsuhiro TODA, Kelly, Yuta BABA, Yoshiro ABE.
On the other hand, Real Madrid started with Ronaldo, Raul, Figo, and Casillas on the bench, with Zidane absent. Beckham, Makelele, and Roberto Carlos started the game with a lineup that lived up to the name of the Galacticos.
In the first half, Tokyo fought hard in a heavy atmosphere. In the 10th minute of the first half, Kelly's looping shot had a decisive scent, but it did not go into the goal. Not being able to score during the dominant period had an impact, and Real Madrid, who switched from 1 midfielder to 2 midfielders, took control.
And in the 37th minute of the first half, Beckham, who was the attraction for fans and supporters of Tokyo, scored a direct free kick, and all hope was lost. After that, two more goals were conceded, resulting in a disappointing defeat.
The AFC Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup have been established as regional and global club championship tournaments, respectively, and have become crowded schedules. Currently, there are few opportunities to encounter this type of Asia tour-like preseason match by big clubs in Europe. However, the significance of experiencing the top of the world at that time, even for a moment, was significant.
It was a special night that could be called the origin of Tokyo, which aims to rise to higher heights in Asia and the world.
Text by Katsu GOTO (Freelance Writer)
