<Match Review>
The final match of the 2022 season has finally arrived. The opponent for this match is Kawasaki Frontale, a strong rival team separated by the Tama River. Having lost 0-1 in the opening match of this season, they are the perfect opponent to measure the growth of the team throughout the season.
"Playing with the ball" (Coach Albert) This season, we have embarked on a transformation. In order to give the fans and supporters who have gathered at Ajinomoto Stadium expectations for further progress next season, we faced a match where results and content were demanded.
1st HALF - Despite being one goal behind, they turn around with numerical advantage
The first half, which started with Tokyo's kickoff, was a continuous play of high intensity and quick transitions from both teams. When either team had the ball, they moved it at a fast pace, and the defensive team responded with a high press without stopping their feet. The beginning was a rapid development.
As the game settled down, there were more scenes where Kawasaki threatened the goal. However, in the 7th minute of the first half, Kento TACHIBANADA's header shot missed the frame, and in the 9th minute, Joao SCHMIDT's middle shot was blocked by Jakub SLOWIK.
On the other hand, in the 12th minute of the first half, Tokyo made their first shot of the day. Using the combination of Hotaka NAKAMURA and Ryoma WATANABE on the right side, they broke through and Koki TSUKAGAWA reacted to the loose ball from a cross and attempted a mid-range shot.
However, the reigning champion aiming for a third consecutive victory does not back down. In the 19th minute of the first half, Marcinho on the left side was unable to stop Yasuto Wakizaka in the center, who swung his favorite right foot. Slowik also reacted, but the ball that flew to the corner of the goal was sucked into the net, conceding the opening goal.
Still, Tokyo aims for an equalizer without looking down. And in the 29th minute of the first half, Adailton, who broke through on a feed from Tsukagawa, was brought down by the opposing goalkeeper outside the penalty area, resulting in Sung Ryong JUNG being sent off and creating a numerical advantage.
After that, Tokyo continued to push forward. On the right side, Nakamura was able to get into deep positions many times and sent numerous crosses. However, they did not connect with any players in front of the goal, and Adailton's overhead shot and Kuryu Matsuki's right-footed volley both missed the target, leaving them one goal behind at halftime.
2nd HALF - The match was not decided by one point
The equalizing goal was suddenly born. In the 2nd minute of the second half, a second attack from a corner kick. Nakata player stuck on the right side, and Tsukagawa player crossed, and Adailton player pushed in the scramble in front of the goal.
The game turned into a fierce battle from here. In the 8th minute of the second half, Tokyo's Luiz Phellype hit the bar with a shot, increasing the momentum for a comeback, but once again Kawasaki took a step forward. In the 16th minute of the second half, Masato Morishige lost the ball while trying to keep it near the goal line and switch with the opponent, allowing Tatsuta to make the final pass. Marcinho's shot in front of the goal didn't meet the ball, but Jakub Slowik's deflected ball was sucked into the goal.
However, Tokyo also fought back. In the 28th minute of the second half, Kazuya KONNO, who came on as a substitute, supplied a cross ball from the right side. Watanabe, who had moved to the outside left back position, crossed it back and Adailton headed it in.
However, just after catching up to the tie, the ball was brought to the goal and in the end, Shintaro KURUMAYA's cross hit Watanabe's foot and went in. It was the third time they had given up the lead.
Tokyo, who cannot afford to lose to a team with one less player at home, brought in players Leandro and Shuto ABE and went on the offensive, but were unable to break through the opponent's solid and concentrated defense, and the final whistle was blown after 5 minutes of additional time.
Albert Tokyo's first year ended in 6th place with 14 wins, 7 draws, and 13 losses.
MATCH DETAILS
＜FC Tokyo＞
STARTING Ⅺ
GK Jakub SLOWIK
DF Hogao NAKAMURA/Yasuki KIMOTO/Masato MORISHIGE/Yuto NAGATOMO (21st minute of the second half: Kazuya KONNO)
MF Koki TSUKAGAWA (21st minute of the second half: Keiki MITA)/Keigo HIGASHI/Kuryu MATSUKI (36th minute of the second half: Leandro)
FW Ryo WATANABE (36th minute of the second half: Shuto ABE)/Luiz PHELLYPE/Adailton
SUBS
GK Akihiro HAYASHI
DF Junya SUZUKI/Seiji KIMURA
GOAL
2 minutes into the second half: Adailton/28 minutes into the second half: Adailton
＜Kawasaki Frontale＞
STARTING Ⅺ
GK Sung Ryong JUNG
DF Miki YAMANE/Jesiel/Shogo TANIGUCHI/Kyohei NOBORIZATO (32nd minute: Kenta TANNO)
MF Joao SCHMIDT (14th minute: Ryota OSHIMA)/Yasuto WAKIZAKA (0th minute: Shintaro KURUMAYA)/Kento TACHIBANADA
FW Akihiro IENAGA/MARCINHO (35th minute: Kazuya YAMAMURA)/Yu KOBAYASHI (14th minute: Kei CHINEN)
SUBS
MF Kazuki KOZUKA
FW Daiya TONO
GOAL
First half 19 minutes: Wakisaka/Second half 17 minutes: MARCINHO/Second half 30 minutes: Own goal
[Interview with Coach Albert]
Q, please look back on today's game.
It was an unbelievable game to lose. We were able to start in a good shape. Kawasaki only looked for attacking opportunities from our mistakes and counters. However, despite such a good start, we conceded the first goal from our own ball loss. Kawasaki naturally has a high-quality team. If we make mistakes, they have the ability to score. After that, I think we continued to play well, but Adailton received a foul that could have led to an injury and we had a player sent off. After that, even though the opponent's numbers decreased, we were able to dominate the game as we had expected. After that, we created many chances but couldn't finish them, and because we are all human, there are players who make mistakes on the pitch. And unfortunately, we conceded a goal from one of those mistakes.
At the end of the season, I think we were able to play well enough to deserve a victory in these two matches. If we had been able to accumulate points, it would have been possible to finish the season in 3rd or 4th place. However, I believe that things and phenomena happen for a reason. For us, finishing in 6th place in our first season of change is not a bad result at all. However, there was a possibility of finishing in 3rd or 4th place, and we ended up in 6th place despite playing well. I think it was a defeat that contained a message that we still have a long way to go. It contains a message to keep our feet on the ground and continue to walk firmly. We were able to apply our style change well and there were many matches where we were able to play better than the teams that finished higher than us. In that sense, I think it was a season that the players can be proud of.
Now, what we need is to rest. Not only the staff, but also the players have suffered through three difficult seasons due to the pandemic. That's why this time, the World Cup will give us a 2-month break. I believe we have put in the effort over the past 3 years to deserve a proper rest during this break. Let's rest well, replenish our energy, and aim for a good season next year with the foundation we have built this season.
Q: Are there any challenges in the attacking aspect for the upcoming season?
A, I think it was a 50-50 season. However, I don't think it was easy to achieve change. What I expect for next season is for the new players who will join to adapt quickly to the team. And, I want to continue building and growing the style that we have been working on this season. I want to continue to convince the players. What will lead us to the top is a strong mentality that is committed to winning. We were able to express good soccer consistently in the last month. I hope we can express it for a longer period of time next season. I believe without a doubt that if we continue to play good soccer, we can continue to win. I hope for that next season. I cannot guarantee winning the title. Because there are 17 rival teams in the league, and they are also fighting to win the title with all their might. I think it shows a lack of respect for rival teams to say that we will definitely win.
[Player Interview]
Q, how did you feel when you entered the bench in the last game?
A, I'm not happy because we lost, but I'm glad we were able to return to the Tama River Clasico for our last game of the season. I think it was the best finale and unless I go to Kawasaki Frontale while I'm still active, I won't be able to participate in the Tama River Clasico, so aside from the result, I think we were able to end on a good note.
Q, Did Lin player choose to terminate the contract before the final round?
A, yes, I requested to be released on my own will. During my 6 years here, I have been feeling unsatisfied for the past 2 years. It is often not beneficial for players to have their contract expire, but after considering this and weighing it against the messages and comments I received from fans and supporters (on social media, etc.), I felt that it was not something I could do to cut off communication until my next team was decided. It was an unusual situation for Tokyo, and as a player, I also had the desire to keep it hidden, but I feel that I was able to overcome these 2 years thanks to the fans and supporters, so I wanted to express my gratitude by making this decision. I was offered the opportunity to speak in front of everyone, but I declined because I knew I would cry if I did. My thoughts are all in the released statement.
Q, Did you see a lot of (Hayashi's) uniforms today?
A, I entered too much (laughs). I saw that and almost cried, so I tried not to talk too much.
Q: How did you feel about hearing the "Hayashi Tokyo" chant?
A, even with that kind of call, I almost cried, so I covered my ears as much as possible and left it so I could hear a little (laughs).
Q, in the comments about the end of the contract, there was a phrase "I hope to bloom one or two more flowers in the remaining soccer life", and I think there are fans and supporters who are also looking forward to your future activities.
A, The end of this contract is a big regret for me, and I still think I could have done more, so I want to perform well with the next team so that this team's decision turns into regret. Of course, I understand the team's judgment. I don't think a player who was useless for two years and returned at the end of the season can extend their contract, so I think the biggest way to repay is to make them regret (the end of the contract) with the next team.
Q, What position did FC Tokyo hold during their 6 years of being on the team, compared to other teams?
When I came to Tokyo, I felt that there was no sense of team unity. There were many skilled players, but they were playing individually and only tried to come together during games. I knew that we couldn't win with that mentality. It was disappointing that we couldn't compete for the championship with this team. Over the past 6 years, I have been working to change this with Masato MORISHIGE and I feel that we have become more human-like through our conversations.
Q, Do you have any memorable scenes during your time playing for this team?
When we had a strong individuality in our first year, it felt like we were just practicing. We weren't yet at the level of veterans, but there were a few older players and we didn't have much cohesion. That's when we started talking to each other and that's what left the biggest impression on me.
Q, communication between the goalkeeper and the last line was smooth, but there was an impression that the attacking line and the defensive line were divided. I think it was a task to stick to the core. Is the team now sticking to the core?
A, First of all, it is necessary to win in the league to have a strong defense even if the content is bad. Even if the attack can ride on the wave at that time, it is not possible to get involved in the top if the defense is not stable. The previous players and the back players were divided, and we were doing it with the feeling that it would be good if we could have a solid defense, but that was not enough. In order to improve this team, we continued to talk about specific things such as how to make the players play comfortably, who will take on the role of connecting, and how to connect in the first year. The result was not achieved, and in the second year, we continued to trial and error. This team still needs to continue trial and error, and we need to come up with ideas, so even if I am gone, I think it will be difficult for the team to take another step forward without players in that position, so I want to entrust it.
Q, Did you talk to Go HATANO and entrust your feelings?
A, I have known him since he was in first year of junior high school. We joined at the same time, and he started calling me Hayashi Coach. It was a start of a coach-player relationship. Even so, we have been practicing as goalkeepers together for 6 years, and it was 6 years of constantly talking about his habits and strengths. We are about the same height, so there were times when he made me realize things, and he was a teammate who pushed me to improve. I received words of encouragement from him, but I also had the same feelings. It was 6 years where we both were able to grow.
Masato MORISHIGE
Q: Please tell us what you felt during today's game.
A, I think the game changed due to the opponent's red card. In the first half, we were able to control the ball while observing the situation, so we need to eliminate small mistakes that can affect the outcome and work together as a team.
Q, What part of the team's progress this season have you been able to confirm?
A, It's a difficult game to say just for today, but I think we have definitely grown including the battles we have had so far and what we have done so far. I think it's about the experience in this soccer, so I want to stack it up.
Q, Will it be important to continue gaining experience in the coming season?
A, I think that's the most important thing, or rather, when the team is in this situation, how do we handle it when these challenges arise? If we have experienced it once or twice, I think we can respond better in the game.
Yuto NAGATOMO
Q, you finished the season without any major injuries, right?
A, it was good to be able to join the national team without any injuries and welcome the World Cup.
Q, this season, I played as a left and right fullback and was used in various ways by coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA. Did you find any areas of growth or discovery for yourself?
First of all, I think we were able to see Nagatomo's growth as a new right-back. Until now, he has only played overlapping on the outside and crossing, but under coach Albert, he was able to learn how to play in the center and the relationship with the winger, which will also be useful for the national team. I am grateful for that.
Q, Today, Matsuki filled in the space for Nagatomo and there was a scene where Nagatomo moved forward. The variations have increased.
In the national team, the members will change again, so I think I can adapt to various positions while increasing our cohesion.
Q, Coach Albert said, "With a player with such a career, he could have ignored what I said. He always humbly did what he was told." What is the source of that humility?
A, because I want to grow. I am always striving for growth and improving myself, so I can learn from anyone, regardless of their age or position. I am always looking for hints to help me grow. Being eager for growth is the root of it all.
Q, this is the fourth World Cup, how will you prepare for it in terms of your condition?
I have participated in 3 tournaments and I know how to prepare myself physically and mentally, so I am not worried about that. In fact, I perform better under pressure and it makes me feel like I am in my 20s again. That's why I am seeking pressure. The World Cup gives me a lot of pressure, so I want to enjoy it.
＜Player Keigo HIGASHI＞
Q, How was the final match?
It was a game that we had to win, and in order to win next year, I feel that it will be difficult to win the title if we continue to play like we did today. We had to take three points by beating the opponent who had 10 players.
Q, Was it difficult to fight after the opponent's numbers decreased due to taking the first point?
A, I think we are overwhelmingly advantageous rather than difficult, so there is no excuse for anything. I think that small mistakes, concentration, and the final decision are all about those parts. That's also the case with the Nagoya game in the previous round, where we didn't show any gaps. However, the direction we are heading and the style we are playing must not be shaken, and I think it is still a challenge to do that while also facing the decisive moment. I also want to be more and more committed to doing it myself.
Q, please tell us your goal for the upcoming season.
I want to win titles in both the league and cup competitions. I think we need to aim for titles even outside of the league, so I want to have that kind of season.
Q, The first match of this season and the final match of the season will both be against Kawasaki. I think there are parts that have been done based on the Kawasaki match, but how do you feel about the progress and momentum over the past year?
A, Honestly (the opponent) it's difficult to compare because it became 10 people, but on the other hand, I think it's good to take it as a plus that we made it 10 people. Not only the Kawasaki game, but also as a team, I think there are parts where we can definitely do what we want from the opening. It's not something that can be solved in one year, so we have to do it for 2 or 3 years, so I think everyone has to believe and do it without wavering.
Q, Did you have any expectations that you would be able to do this much in the past year as a player? Do you have a sense of accomplishment for what you have achieved so far?
In terms of style, regardless of whether it is good or bad, it is clearly different. In that sense, there is a sense of accomplishment, but as I mentioned earlier, in soccer, small details make the difference in the game, and I feel that no matter what style, that part cannot be overlooked. Whether we can focus on that or not, it depends on the players' awareness and the ability to change together, and I think we can turn it into strength to win. That is still a challenge, and I think I have to lead the team in terms of age, so we have to eliminate games like today's.
Q: Please reflect on the team's top goal count to end the season. Please review today's goals.
A, Looking back on this season, we were able to start the season in good condition. I think that also led to being the top scorer in the team, and we were able to enter the game with a good image. It's a shame that we couldn't win today's game, but I think it's a positive thing that we were able to score points.
Q, the first point was connected to the goal through a narrow course with a loose ball.
A, since we were in a losing situation, our first goal was to catch up to a tie. While playing with that mindset, the ball happened to fall in front of me and I swung my foot, resulting in a goal. It was a good feeling.
Q, the second header seemed to be well prepared for the return.
A, I think I was ready to score in a good way today. Not just with headers, but also with the first goal, I was thinking of throwing my body to score regardless of whether it was on the right, left, or with a header or a loose ball. So, I think it was more of a good preparation that led to being ready for headers.
Q: Please review the scene where you broke away from the opposing goalkeeper in the first half.
A, Throughout the season, one of the challenges was finding space while connecting the ball, and I think it was also a result of our daily practice that we were able to successfully connect the ball on the right side and send it to the opposite space. It was the space I wanted and the ball came out at the timing I wanted, so it was just as I imagined and I think it was a result of our practice.
Q, How do you feel about the sense of accomplishment when looking back on the entire season again?
A, As I mentioned earlier, I am satisfied with the fact that I was able to score many goals this season in good condition, and I am proud that I was able to share the joy with the fans and supporters in many games with my goals. I believe this will be a support for me in the future. I will continue to focus on results. Thank you for your support throughout the year.
＜Koki TSUKAGAWA player＞
Q, what was it like to play against your former team?
A, it's just one word of regret. There were also parts where I was too tense, but it was really a fun time, and I'm glad I came to this team. I'm also happy that I was able to have such a heated battle like this.
Q, What do you think were the key factors that determined the outcome of the match between teams that both claim to play similar styles of soccer?
A, The opponent became 10 people, and it was a favorable development for us, but in the end, the determination and such seemed to be stronger for Kawasaki, who had the championship, while we were in a situation where we had nothing honestly, I felt that determination from the opponent.
Q, After the match, you were talking with your former teammates. What kind of conversation did you have?
A, I thought I should work harder because everyone gave me words of encouragement like "Do your best".
Q, there were also voices from the fans and supporters of Kawasaki Frontale.
A, I'm really happy.
Q, How was it for you to transfer this season and look back on it?
A, as an individual, I was able to have a fulfilling 3 months after transferring. I was able to contribute in games and now I hope to continue to perform well throughout the entire season. I want to continue to grow and become a player who can help the team achieve a higher ranking and win the championship.
Q, did you put too much effort or did you overdo it today?
A, I wish I had been more calm and collected when I took the shot and it went somewhere else.
Q, There were also parts where the team was saved by forcing it in reverse. I thought it was good to put my body in and make it my ball, make decisive passes, and have a good sense of daring.
A, I think it would be great if I could show my strengths and also show what I have learned to grow even more.
Q, What did you feel the most when facing Kawasaki?
A, today has become a special development, but each individual is good at stopping and kicking, and I thought that I have confidence and confidence in our core.
Q, In terms of style, I think there are many things to learn, but how about that for next season?
A, Although there is a lot to learn, the team has a solid foundation now. I think each team has its own strengths and player's individuality, but I hope to continue learning and further develop the strengths of Tokyo.
Q, What do you think about the play where Sung Ryong JUNG was sent off and the ball was taken away from him? I think the feed from that scene was really good.
At the scene where (TACHIBANADA) Kento fell, I thought it was a foul, but it wasn't that strong of a hit, so I thought Kento was just trying to get a call, and the referee was also watching closely. With that development, I could clearly see the back side, so I just had to follow through, and it was truly a super play.
Q, When did you realize you were free?
A, when Mr. Akira (the head of the family) came to visit, I was thinking of inviting him to go out and play.
Q, how was the first cross?
A, there were a number of players inside, and if I could put in a good ball, both Felipe and Ada, as well as Mr. (Kimoto) Yasushi, were there, so I thought I would lift it up.
Q, how was the match against Wakisaka?
A, although there weren't many opportunities for an expansive match-up, they were still skillful as usual.
Q, Did you miss it?
A, I didn't have the luxury of nostalgia (laughs)
Q, Do you feel that you are able to create chances through consistent play?
A, I am always playing soccer with the mindset of wanting to do passes that lead directly to goals or things that the opponent dislikes, so if it is thought that I am able to make those plays, I am happy.
Q, there were many great starts. I think what I learned in Kawasaki is alive in FC Tokyo, how was today's play?
A, the tasks given to me are different from when I was in Kawasaki, but what is required of me has changed since coming to Tokyo. I think my strengths are even more evident here, so I hope to improve the quality and results even more.
＜Player Kuryu MATSUKI＞
Q, How did you approach this year?
I had a strong desire to start in J1 and during the camp, I felt confident. Coach Albert trusted and played me throughout the season, and although I couldn't live up to the high expectations, I believe I was able to do what the team needed.
Q, What are the differences between your first year fighting in high school and your first year fighting in the J-League?
In the J League, there is also the World Cup this year, so I think the season ended a little early, but it felt even earlier. It left the impression that the season ended quickly.
Q, As a young player who has attracted attention this season, I think you have been featured in the media and mentioned by various senior players. How did you feel about that?
A, the most helpful on the pitch are the senior players around me, so there were things to absorb from them and of course things to learn. As I am the youngest playing in the game, I felt that I had to express that on the pitch.
Q, I think this year was also as a rookie, but next year will be a season after fighting for a year, so please tell us your aspirations.
A, I want to be more ambitious and challenge the results next season.
Q, Please give a message to all the fans and supporters who have supported us for one year.
Thank you for supporting us throughout the season.
＜Ryoma WATANABE player＞
Q, I think the second goal was a one-touch cross back, but that play looks simple but it's actually a very difficult play. I think it was a scene that showed the high level of skill, what do you think?
I only remember aiming for Adailton and crossing it, so I'm glad he scored.
Q, I think it was because I was playing on the left side that I was able to play in that position. Also, I think I showed the ability to create chances from any position, what do you think?
When playing on the left side, I was conscious of waiting on the outside for opportunities with the ball from players like Kazuya KONNO and Hotaka NAKAMURA. There was one scene where I couldn't connect with a cross ball from Mitsuda, but I was able to grasp the distance and entry of the ball in that play, so I was able to consciously use that image in the next play.
Q, was it because of that play that you were able to score?
A, that's right.
Q, How do you look back on scoring an own goal?
A, returning to that position is also one of my strengths, so I want to use today's experience as a good learning opportunity for the next time. I think that kind of play can be improved by gaining experience, so I feel like I learned something from it.
Q, Kawasaki takes positions while looking at the opponent's position and plays soccer. I think FC Tokyo could have competed with the same playing style, but what do you think?
A, because it's the same football style, I was able to play while understanding the opponent's coming position, location, direction, and how they come. So, I want to firmly connect that to chances and move forward.
Q, How was the past year for you, starting and ending in Kawasaki?
A, I played as a side back in the first game, and it was a frustrating start. I think it was a season where I could have done much more throughout the season.
Q, Is there a difference you felt because of the same soccer style?
A, because it's the same soccer style, we were able to play while understanding the opponent's coming position, location, direction, and way of coming, so we want to firmly connect that to chances. In a good or bad way, not taking risks is one point. It's a soccer where we connect attacks from there if we can receive the ball even if we kick it big, and it's a soccer where we hold the ball including the goalkeeper GK, so I think that's different from Kawasaki.
The second goal was also a scene of conceding, but I think it was because it was us that we made a mistake and conceded there. So, rather than each individual player, I think this is a challenge for the entire team, and I hope we can continue to work on it.
![[2022 Season Review] Interview with player Masato MORISHIGE](/en/upload/Tokyoism/images/img_319_636e1b53-2d00-4feb-8a3b-2c4d0a000292.jpg)