In the previous match, Tokyo achieved victory against Gamba Osaka at the Japan National Stadium, where over 40,000 spectators gathered. Amidst a 0-0 game, Coach Albert emphasized that the team is constantly growing.
In the Gamba Osaka match, they held the ball for a long time and pushed the opponent, and they also quickly regained possession after losing the ball, achieving a solid attack. They also limited the opportunities for decisive balls in front of the goal and set up a tight defensive net that prevented the opponent's players from entering the penalty area, finishing the game with four consecutive clean sheets.
After the 7 consecutive games in April, the team is now entering a series of matches during Golden Week, and the players' fatigue is not to be taken lightly. Furthermore, there have been players getting injured and it has become a very challenging situation for the team composition. In the early stages of the season, they also faced difficulties due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, but Coach Albert managed to overcome it by utilizing the right players in the right positions. It will be interesting to see how he integrates the limited playing time of the players, including the young players who performed well in the Levain Cup.
Particularly noteworthy is the use of center-back players. Masato MORISHIGE was injured and Henrique TREVISAN also returned to the locker room on a stretcher at the end of the Gamba Osaka match. Will Henrique be able to make it in time, or will another player seize the opportunity to play? Building up from the defensive line is the first step in the attack. In particular, the development of incorporating long and short passes from the center-backs has become the essence of Tokyo's new style. The selection and performance in this aspect are likely to determine the outcome of the match.
On the other hand, in the Fukuoka match, there will also be high expectations for defense in the center-back position. Fukuoka has large forwards such as Juanma DELGADO and Lukian. Depending on the combination with players with different characteristics like Yuya YAMAGISHI and Daiki WATARI, dealing with them will not be easy.
While countering the strength, speed, and skill of the opponent's attacking line, they also play a crucial role in orchestrating the attack when in possession of the ball. They will return to their home ground, Ajinomoto Stadium, just five days after the Fukuoka match. In order to accumulate points and return home with consecutive victories, the performance of the center-backs cannot be overlooked.
