COLUMN2022.4.12

4/13 Shonan Match MATCH PREVIEW

The 3 consecutive matches against clubs participating in the AFC Champions League (ACL) have ended, but Tokyo is currently in the midst of a congested schedule with 7 matches in 2-3 days. After the league match against Urawa Reds, they will face Shonan Bellmare away in the 4th round of the Levain Cup with only 2 days of rest.

After 3 games, Tokyo is in 2nd place in Group with 1 win, 1 draw, and 1 loss. Shonan, who we will face this time, is in 1st place with 2 wins. In the previous match, Tokyo won 2-1 at home at Ajinomoto Stadium and achieved their first victory of the season in the Levain Cup. It was a game where we gained a great sense of accomplishment in terms of performance and felt the growth of the team.

Sec. 3 Shonan Match Details Here!

Due to only having 2 days between league matches, it is expected that the lineup for this match will consist mainly of players who have had limited playing time in the league. In the Levain Cup, Go HATANO, who has had playing time in the Júbilo Iwata and Shonan matches, has shown stable saving and also contributed to the build-up.

Even if the team composition changes, the style of Albert Tokyo remains unshakable. They dominate the ball and the game with their advantageous positioning, creating many chances and seizing victory. For young players and those who have had limited playing time in the league, this is a great opportunity to showcase their abilities and contribute to the team's tactics. They are hungry for playing time, hungry for victory, and hungry to secure a regular position in the future. I want them to bring that strong determination to the pitch.

As a team, we are still in the stage of constantly reflecting on and improving our performance in each game, as acknowledged by coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA. It may be difficult in terms of coordination, as we are no longer a unit that has played together for a long time in official matches. However, as we continue to pursue the same style of soccer in our daily training, even if there are times when things don't go well, I want us to actively communicate on the pitch and make adjustments within the 90 minutes.

Please pay attention to the intense battle that Albert Pobor has put all his efforts into, amidst a tough schedule with games continuing every other day in Tokyo.