Aspiring soccer player.
Even now, standing on the same stage as a professional soccer player, I still want to continue chasing after their backs, and the feelings I had as a soccer boy have not changed and have been revived.
However, we must surpass such an admired presence.
That is precisely why the team is getting closer to winning the Levain Cup title.
And the veteran who leads the team as an admired presence, is also determined to dedicate everything he has to this club in order to bring a title to Tokyo.
Inheriting Play and Attitude
J.League YBC Levain Cup 1st Round 3rd Round Sagan Tosu Match. After 120 minutes, the match ended in a tie and Tokyo secured the victory in a fierce battle that went into penalty kicks.
Teppei OKA, who stood on the pitch of EKIMAE REAL ESTATE STADIUM, not only made his first start in a long time, but also had another event that shook his heart.
Masato MORISHIGE is the center back pairing. Okada has always admired Tokyo's bandiera since he was a child.
"I had a feeling of gratitude for being able to play on the same pitch and in the same position as the player I had admired since I was a child. At the same time, I was also excited to see what kind of play they would show. Playing together for 120 minutes was truly inspiring."
It was the first time for the two to form a combination on the pitch in an official match. Except for the late goal conceded in the second half, the strengths of Morishige's sharp reading and defensive ability, and Okada's accurate build-up and strong man-to-man defense were utilized, and the match was closed with the fewest goals conceded.
For player Okada, it was his first starting appearance in an official match, with 120 minutes of play time and a tough battle required. However, the presence of teammate Morishige, who they formed a partnership with, pushed them forward in the final moments, by just a step or a few centimeters.
"I feel that we really need to learn from the attitude of Morishige, who approaches practice with 100% effort. It is natural for me and the young players to give 100%, but the fact that veteran players are approaching it with such an attitude has a positive impact and motivation on the entire team."
So far, Okas player has only played one game as a substitute in the J1 League and is facing the reality of the professional world. He definitely wants to turn the chance he got in the Levain Cup, known as the "gateway for young players", into results.
"From Morishige's training, his dedication to putting his body on the line to block and his hardworking attitude have always been a role model for me and something I strive to emulate. This time, I want to inherit that attitude."
To win the fierce battle for the center back position, and to surpass our aspirations――.
This club needs a title
Masato MORISHIGE, who is entering his 14th season with Tokyo, is hungry for titles more than anyone else. He knows better than anyone else that this is what will change the future of Tokyo.
"Since we have many young players, I believe that winning the title will be a successful experience. When we look back at the past, we can say, 'We were able to do this well during the season we won the title,' and I think that one successful experience will become a measure for both the team and the players. I believe that winning the championship and achieving titles will have a big impact on our young players."
Veteran player Morishige, who has entered the realm of being called a veteran. With the success of players such as Yasuki Kimoto, Henrique Trevisan, and Kanta Doi, a fierce competition for positions is unfolding.
However, I have no intention of taking a step back and just watching.
"Good teams always have good competition. Personally, I am very welcome and it is a plus for both the team and the individual to be able to compete within the team. I am able to spend each day without letting my guard down. Personally, I still have a lot to do and there are many things that I am not satisfied with when I look back on the game."
Surely, there is frustration in the current situation. However, I am proud that we have continued to make corrections and improvements, taking one step forward at a time.
And the look in their eyes, hungrier than anyone else for game appearances and title acquisitions, has spread their passion through their play, bringing a synergistic effect to the team.
Okasen's presence is also a stimulus for Morishige.
"Both of us had the determination to play in the game and seize the opportunity, and I know that Okamoto has been taking his training seriously. I also know that he has had some frustrating experiences. That's why we had the desire to beat Tosu as a team and achieve results. I am happy that Okamoto respects me, but he is also a rival for my position. When we play together like in the Tosu game, I want to give advice and share my experiences, and I will continue to strive to create an atmosphere and provide support for young players to play boldly."
No player is guaranteed to play regardless of the position they play. There is competition within the team, and that is why high-quality play and good tension are created.
Okasen is to surpass the existence of longing, and Morishige is to bring the best scenery to the team.
Each person's hidden ambition and passionate feelings are now unleashed on the pitch.
