[Interview with Coach Albert]
Q, what is the important thing after a big defeat?
A, the Fukuoka match turned out to be the worst possible scenario from the start of the game. It can be said that soccer is a very attractive sport precisely because such developments can occur. We have listed three important points and conducted training in preparation for the Fukuoka match. We also incorporated the goal of not conceding a goal at the start of the game into our game plan. We also prepared to respond firmly to set-piece defense and long goal kicks from the goalkeeper. However, we were defeated in that (careful) aspect. If we hadn't prepared, maybe that kind of development wouldn't have happened. On the contrary, it may be because we were prepared that we were defeated by the opponent's weapon. It is a difficult situation to find reasons for. As for the development in the second half, Fukuoka is a team that uses counterattacks as a major weapon, so it becomes a very difficult game for the opposing team when they are leading. Fukuoka will solidly defend and then launch a counterattack, which is the expected development. On the other hand, Fukuoka struggles when they are behind. That's why we were aiming for the opening goal, but it turned out the opposite. Of course, there were individual mistakes that led to conceding goals. There were also injuries in the center-back position and a shortage of players, which contributed to the game turning out the way it did. It is difficult to explain why we conceded five goals in one game when we had only conceded five goals in ten games.
Tomorrow's game will be against a team with different characteristics from Fukuoka, so we need to switch our mindset accordingly. I think we can say that they are a team that enjoys playing soccer along with the ball. They also apply high pressure and aim to dominate the game. In that sense, they are completely different from Fukuoka. What we need to do this season is to improve the completion of our playing style. Even as the characteristics of our opponents change, it is necessary to express our playing style in a good way. Our ball possession rate in the Fukuoka game was high. However, it was not effective. Looking back now, I think our game plan was on target in the first half. The second goal, which was a result of our mistakes following the opponent's goal kick, had a big impact on the game. We were working on our response to the opponent's goal kick in training to prevent that, but we still got caught. Sometimes, we lose because our game plan is off target, and other times, we lose even though our game plan is on target.
Q, I think Sagan Tosu is a team that plays a style of soccer similar to the one desired by coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA, and I have a feeling that it will be an entertaining match.
A, you won't know until you open it. While you can make predictions, there are infinite factors that can influence a soccer match, so you won't know if the actual game will be exciting until it starts. I think the Fukuoka match is a typical example of this. It was a match between us, who had an extremely low number of goals conceded, and Fukuoka, who had difficulty scoring goals. No one expected Fukuoka to win with a large number of goals. On the other hand, there were also situations where attacking teams couldn't score against us. I think everyone is expecting an exciting match tomorrow. However, the result and the course of the game will change significantly depending on who scores first. Even in the UEFA Champions League semi-final match between Real Madrid and Manchester City the other day, no one expected the final outcome. Soccer is truly an unpredictable sport. However, we focus on one game at a time, but we also need to consider the team's continuous growth from a broader perspective. I think what's important this season is to build the foundation of this team. I believe it will lead to the future growth of this club.
Q: What are your thoughts on the decision to line up three Brazilian players in the forward line in the Fukuoka match and their future usage?
A, of course, we have the option of lining up three players in the future. I have seen many comments saying that the defensive pressure from the front decreases when three players are lined up, but I do not think so. As for the part where we concede multiple goals, I do not believe that it is solely because the defense from the front line is not functioning. What is important is finding combinations that bring out the individual characteristics of each player. Furthermore, I do not place importance on nationality. I have proven this during the two seasons I led in Niigata. Just because a player is of Brazilian nationality does not mean we will line up three players.
[Player Interview]
＜Keita YAMASHITA＞
Q, we will have a match against my former team Sagan Tosu. I have been a part of multiple teams before and I think I have had matches against my former teams, but I am the type of person who feels special emotions in such matches.
A, speaking in terms of whether it burns or not, it does burn. However, I am currently a Tokyo player and I have the desire to contribute to the team by earning more points, so it's not that I have any particular feelings towards Tosu that make me burn. Simply put, I will be playing against players I fought with last season, and they also know how I play, so I am looking forward to playing against such a team.
Q: What kind of experiences did you have in Tosu during your career?
A, it was a season where I was able to grow a lot. There was also the challenge of playing in J1 for the first time, and I was able to feel my growth throughout the season. I gained confidence and also realized what I was lacking. It was truly an intense season. I was able to achieve a good number of goals, but that was thanks to my teammates. I gained confidence in being able to score in this way. However, that is because of the team's style, so now I just need to do what is required in Tokyo.
Q, do you have a sense that your first goal in Tokyo is getting closer?
A, I want to score a goal... I think it's something I have to overcome in order to raise myself to the next level. Even if there are things I can't do, I have the desire to try each and every one. I want this match against my former team to be the first step in improving my condition. I want to make it the first game where I can produce goals.
Q, in the Vissel Kobe match, it became a phantom goal, but I was able to shake the net in front of the goal in the form of a diving header, which is typical of player Yamashita.
A, I am very particular about scoring goals, but I also want to run for the team, throw myself into the game, and be a sacrificial player. I think that this kind of wholehearted play is also my strength, so I want to show that first. I believe that if I continue to do that, it will lead to goals. First, I want to focus on what I can do.
Q, isn't there a considerable number of roles required within the current team style?
A, I don't think there are many rules in terms of regulations, so I think it's important to discuss and have a common understanding on the pitch.
Q, in the 5th match of the Levain Cup group stage against Júbilo Iwata, Kajiura's goal was born from Yamashita's post-play. I think it was a result of the common understanding among the players involved.
A, anyone can do that play (laughs). I believe that it is necessary to achieve results, goals, and assists. Even if a good pass is connected, I don't think it will build my confidence. The cycle of results, confidence, and growth is correct, so I strongly emphasize the results.
Q, even if you come on as a substitute, do you feel that you are able to create opportunities to take shots inside the penalty area within the limited time?
A, as a professional football player, I think whether you can seize the opportunities that come and go depends on the individual. In that situation, I want to seize it.
Q, Tosu is a team that has only suffered one defeat this season.
A, I understand that we are a team that is scary to our opponents. Our defensive tactics are very detailed, and it seems that our intensity has increased even more compared to last season. However, I don't feel like we will lose. I understand my teammates who I am playing with now, and if we can stick to our style and fight as a team, I believe we can win. Scoring the first goal is important. By taking the lead, we can progress the game in our favor and I think we can control the game at our own pace.
＜Yasuki KIMOTO player＞
Q: In the previous match, we were defeated by Fukuoka with a score of 1-5, which was the highest number of goals conceded this season. We had been keeping the fewest goals conceded in the league so far, but what do you think went wrong in the Fukuoka match?
A, the bad timing of the two goals conceded in the first half, which handed the flow of the game to the opponent. However, if you look at the content, each player played their role and fought well. I also feel that it was unfortunate that all five shots on target by the opponent resulted in goals. I want to accept that there are times like this in a long season and switch my mindset so as not to carry a negative image.
Q: How do you feel about moving to Tokyo this season? How has it been so far?
I feel that I have been able to showcase my strengths more often than last season, partly because I have become more accustomed to Coach Albert's style of soccer. Tokyo has a bright team atmosphere, and it has pleasantly surprised me in a good way. I feel like I have been able to integrate well with the team off the pitch, and I believe that has had a positive impact on my performance.
Q, how do you feel about the current level of completion of the new style that Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA is aiming for?
A, the coach's standard is FC Barcelona, so the ideal is very high. Honestly, I don't think we will reach a perfect level in this year, but the players must grow anyway. There are many challenges, but we are conscious of being able to produce results in the game as professionals and grow at the same time.
Q, please share your enthusiasm for this match with the fans and supporters.
A, this season, Tokyo has not lost a single game at home. I believe this is the result of everyone creating the best atmosphere at every match. We were defeated in the previous match away, but we cannot allow consecutive losses. With your support, I want to win for sure, so please continue to give us your passionate support this match as well!
