Three days before the first match of the Levain Cup Prime Stage quarterfinals, Tokyo revealed its poor compatibility with Avispa Fukuoka, having lost to them in the league with a record of 3 wins, 3 draws, and 8 losses. In the Levain Cup, they were also in a situation where they had a losing record against Fukuoka with 1 win, 3 draws, and 2 losses before the first match.
In the first match played at home at Ajinomoto Stadium on the 6th, they broke the jinx and won 1-0, bringing their record in the Levain Cup back to an even 2 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses. Considering that Fukuoka had not been able to win a single game in the 8 matches since their promotion in the 2021 season, this can be considered a significant advancement for Tokyo.
In the first match in Tokyo, they looked back on the previous league match and made a system change to have a defense line consisting of three players. This allowed them to create an advantage on the sides and successfully neutralize Fukuoka's vertical pressure in both offense and defense. In defense, they thoroughly closed the spaces, including the wingbacks, and took care of the opponent's quick attacks, while in offense, they prevented the press and were able to smoothly build up their plays.
There were moments in the second half where we directly faced the opponent's momentum after taking the lead with Adailton's opening goal. However, we recognized the importance of winning in the tournament and prioritized a realistic battle of organizing our defense, resulting in a positive outcome. In this tournament where the total score of two matches determines the outcome, it can be anticipated that the result of the first match will have a significant impact on the second match.
How will Tokyo make use of the advantage it gained from winning first? The important thing will be to assess Fukuoka's approach.
For Fukuoka, this is the second match playing at home. If they come forward with the advantage of playing at home, Tokyo will need to effectively utilize the space behind them. On the other hand, if they aim to bring the game to a solid and utilize tall foreign players in power plays, it will be necessary to press high and disrupt the distribution to the forward line, and have an aggressive defense that keeps the opponent's forward line away from the goal by controlling the defensive line.
Tokyo, who broke the jinx against Fukuoka, is bringing the ticket to the semifinals back from Fukuoka, aiming for their first Levain Cup victory in three tournaments.
[Interview with Peter Cklamovski]
Q, we changed our formation in the previous match against Avispa Fukuoka with a short preparation period and achieved victory.
A, the players made very good movements in order to perform as a team. It was a game where deserving plays and good elements were seen. It is important to evolve and improve what was good. We controlled the game in the first half. We had momentum and there were good movements and coordinated plays within that, which led to the opening goal. In the second half, I think we were able to control the game from a different perspective than the first half. As a point that needs improvement, it is to express the way of fighting like the first half in the second half. If we can improve on that point, I think we could have scored additional goals in the second half. There was also good defense as a team, and I think it was good that we were able to finish the game without conceding any goals. After finishing the first match, we are in a halftime situation, so we just have to fight to win in the second match in Fukuoka.
Q, I think the addition of formation options has increased the tactical choices.
A, it was a good challenge for us, and the players carried it out well. We want to continue growing as a team that can do various things according to the situation. We have taken a good step, but there are many points that we need to improve. We want to improve the challenges while moving in the right direction as a team. The choice we made in the recent Fukuoka match was based on what is most important and how to maximize it. I think it was the right choice.
Q, please let us know if there were any challenges that the team faced when approaching the game with a 3-back formation.
A, when considering our current situation, I thought that approaching the game with a 3-back formation would be the best choice. And, considering that the game is in 2 days and the players' condition, it was a choice to ensure that the players play in the best condition and to take the initiative in both offense and defense, in order for the team to evolve. I think it is important to challenge various things from here on in order to further evolve.
[Player Interview]
Naoki KUMATA
Q, if you have any impressions or realizations from the first match of the quarterfinals, please let us know.
I played from the start, but I couldn't do anything individually and felt that there are still many things I need to do. As a challenge, my own passing mistakes stood out during the attack. However, I think it means something that I was able to play for almost 90 minutes. I want to do my best to be able to play in the upcoming matches. Regardless of the form, it is important for a forward to be able to score, and I think it's just a matter of building up from practice. If I don't show it from practice, I don't think my teammates will give me the final pass during the game, so I want to focus on the results.
Q, in the previous match we played with Adailton and Dawhan as the two forwards. What were you conscious of?
A, I myself have played many times as one of the two tops, so it was easy to do. When defending, the two tops can defend against the ball together, and when attacking, if the two tops can cooperate well, they can complete the attack. It is important how the two tops are involved in both offense and defense, but I think I can bring out a different goodness from the one top.
Q, not only attack but also high-intensity defense was often seen.
A, I think we need to further improve from here. Not only in defense, but also as a forward, I want to enhance the quality of our attacks. I want to increase the number of times I touch the ball in front of the goal and be conscious of showcasing my own strengths.
Q, please tell me what we need to do to improve our winning percentage in away games in Kyushu as a team.
I know that we haven't been able to win away games in Kyushu. Regarding that, I think it's important for not just me, but the team as a whole, to win decisively. I am only fighting for the team's sake and for victory.
＜Ryoma WATANABE player＞
Q, league matches, Levain Cup, and 3 games in a row, while playing against Avispa Fukuoka, how do you see the opponent's strengths and playing style?
I felt that there was a mismatch in the league matches on the 3rd day. On the pitch, it seemed like the gaps were being used well to receive the ball, but when I watched the footage later, I didn't feel that way. I felt a sense of defensive positioning errors and the need to focus on defense first. If we can maintain an attacking attitude like in the game on the 6th day and have a solid defense that can catch the opponent, a good flow will naturally be created and I believe that our play will improve.
Q, In the first match of the Levain Cup, you came on as a substitute in the midfield position. Did you have many tasks to fulfill both in attack and defense?
There was of course an instruction from Coach CKLAMOVSKI to "score additional points", but when considering the connection to the second match, I thought it was essential not to open up defensive holes. In the previous match, I was particularly conscious of properly recovering second balls. I don't know if I will start from the beginning or come on as a substitute in the second match, but I want to continue with this awareness.
Q, it seemed that Watanabe's own characteristics were further enhanced by playing in the attacking midfield or central midfield position.
I think I can demonstrate my own strengths when there are options in all directions. I believe it is a position where many positive aspects can be demonstrated.
Q, With the advantage of winning the first match, how do you want to proceed with the game?
Regardless of the result of the first match, I believe we should play as an attacking team. I think if we have even a slight defensive mindset, the risk of conceding goals will increase as we will be vulnerable to the opponent's attacks. I want us to go for goals aggressively and show plays like shooting on the first play. Personally, I am not concerned about not having won the away match against Fukuoka so far, and I think we can approach the second match with a good sense as a team after winning the first match. I want to cherish good senses and inspirations.
