On April 11th (Mon), the 8th day of the France expedition, it was the final day of the tournament and we faced the final round of the lower league ranking match.
The opponent is FC Porto, who we also faced yesterday.
Yesterday, both the players and staff were determined to settle the match against the opponent that ended in a 0-0 draw.
Even though it is a lower league, there was a final round, and the venue was filled with spectators, creating the best atmosphere for the match.
We will set the defensive line higher, taking advantage of the reflection from the previous time, and go to steal the ball from the front line.
The defensive stability provided by midfielder Riku NAKASHIMA and Aoki TOMOFUMI, along with center-backs Takuto ISHIMURA and Rikuto SOUMA, prevented the opponents from creating chances.
The number of times we have invaded the penalty area with our attacks has increased, but we have yet to be given the opportunity to take a shot as we enter the second half's additional time.
In the last play, Go KURIBAYASHI tried to dribble past the opponent from the overlap, but was pulled by the opponent and won a free kick.
Ko KOBAYASHI kicks the free kick, and Tessyo TAKAI picks up the ball that flowed to the far side and dribbles into the penalty area. Riku HASHIMOTO finally scores by connecting with that pass!
We were able to win this match with a dramatic goal in the final moments, with a score of 1-0.
When I returned to the locker room, we all sang the chant "We are Tokyo!"
As the expedition progresses, the sense of unity as a team increases, and the fighting spirit becomes very strong.
Afterwards, we moved to the dining area for the final dinner.
At the end, we said goodbye to the local staff who supported us with operations, transportation, and meals during the tournament, and took a commemorative photo before leaving the venue.
Today, the activities of the France expedition have safely concluded without any major accidents or injuries.
Tomorrow morning, I will depart towards the airport and arrive on my way back to Japan.
The valuable experience gained from this expedition is sure to contribute to the growth of the players. We look forward to their future development.
