Taishi Brandon NOZAWA, Kuryu MATSUKI, and Ryotaro ARAKI have been selected for the U-23 Japan national team for the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qatar 2024, aiming for a ticket to the Paris Olympics and the title of Asian champions in their respective age group, from Tokyo.
In the first group stage match on April 16th against China, player Matsuki started, while in the second match against UAE on the 19th, player Araki started. In the third match against South Korea on the 22nd, both players Nozawa and Araki were named in the starting eleven. Additionally, player Seiji KIMURA, who is currently on loan to Sagan Tosu, came on as a substitute in the match against China and started in the match against UAE. This time, we will deliver a journalist's column on the efforts of the blue and red warriors in the group stage, as seen through on-site coverage.
The number of spots available for the Paris Olympics in Asia is "3.5". To secure a spot in the main tournament, a team must either finish in the top 3 at the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qatar 2024, or win against Guinea in the intercontinental playoffs if they finish in 4th place.
U-23 Japan national team led by Go OIWA faced China, UAE, and South Korea in the group stage. Despite facing tough opponents, Japan was forced to play a difficult game from the first match due to a red card, but they fought hard against China and managed to hold onto the lead with Matsuki's goal, followed by a dominant performance against UAE. With two matches played, Japan secured their spot in the Final Round. In the third match against South Korea, they made significant changes to the lineup but ultimately suffered a defeat from a set piece goal. In the Semifinal Round, they will face the host country Qatar.
Taishi Brandon NOZAWA
After the start of the tournament, I didn't get many chances to play. However, Bryan LINSSEN, who started two consecutive games, said, "I was preparing to be ready to play whenever I was called upon, while supporting the team in my own way." He focused on training and made final adjustments, actively speaking to those around him before and after the game and during halftime. This was all because of his desire to contribute to the team's victory. Even without a chance to step onto the pitch, he thought about what he could do and took action.
He got his chance in the third game against South Korea. "Since it's a tournament where everyone's strength is needed, we will unite and win against South Korea. I was conscious of that and stood on the pitch." If we show a stable build-up from the beginning of the game, we can also respond by moving forward to get behind the opponent. Although we conceded a goal from a set piece, we showed a great performance by quickly reacting and making a brilliant save in a pinch, and we were able to control the key moments.
The match against South Korea was undoubtedly a frustrating one. However, the blue and red goalkeeper is already moving forward towards the next opportunity.
Kuryu MATSUKI
One of the biggest highlights of the group stage was the team's first goal scored in the 8th minute of the match against China. Fuki YAMADA crossed the ball with his left foot from the right side, and it was skillfully pushed into the goal with a left-footed inside volley.
"I was able to get in between at the timing when Kanata cut in, and a good ball came, so I was able to look at the goalkeeper and put it in firmly. I had practiced that shape, and in fact, I had a good feeling about shooting from crosses in training. I think it was good that it went in."
The first match against China was a struggle not only in terms of scoring goals. Despite being at a numerical disadvantage due to an early red card, the team adjusted their position from inside half to defensive midfielder and showed strong defense. They also quickly reacted to second balls and shut down the opponent's chances. Even in a difficult situation, they showcased their performance and demonstrated their strong mentality.
In the UAE and South Korea matches, he started on the bench, but he was able to make an impact even as a substitute. He calmly touched the ball and created a rhythm, attempting to make chances multiple times. Although there was one more result he wanted, he should be able to show it in the final round from here on.
Ryotaro ARAKI
After seeing my teammate Kuryu MATSUKI score a goal in the first match against China, I was filled with passion.
"I was happy with Kuse's goal and thought I couldn't lose either."
After being named in the starting lineup for the UAE match, Robert actively aimed for the goal while getting involved with the ball from the beginning. In the 20th minute of the first half, he received the ball in a deep position on the left side and skillfully took a shot while moving towards the center. Although it was blocked by the bar, it was a scene that showed his determination to score.
He also played a role as a link between the front line and the final line in other situations, and demonstrated his own strengths by dribbling. "I was able to get involved with the ball and create chances. I think I was able to calm the team down and develop attacks while watching the game. The only thing left is to score. I want to improve my scoring ability in the next game," he looked back on the game with a sense of accomplishment.
Aoki started in the following match against South Korea. Although the team suffered a defeat, he fought alone to change the flow of the game by dropping back to receive the ball and showing his driving force forward. In the second half, he came close to scoring with a middle shot, showing his presence even in a losing team. His form is not bad, so we can expect him to perform even better in future matches.
Seiji KIMURA
After being forced to withdraw due to an injury before the start of this season, he only returned to the pitch in March. Despite this, Coach Oiwa selected him for an important tournament based on his previous performances.
The chance came in the 22nd minute of the first half of the China match. Ryuya NISHIO was given a red card, leaving the center back position vacant and giving him a sudden opportunity to play. "I was a little nervous and anxious because I would be less prepared if I had to substitute, rather than preparing beforehand." Despite this, Kimura showed a stable performance. He competed against the opponent's tall forward with his height and tightened the team's defense by putting his body on the line at crucial moments.
Started in the starting lineup in the second match against UAE, and in the 27th minute of the first half, he scored his first goal in a national team match since the start of the Paris Olympics generation. He skillfully headed Rihito YAMAMOTO's cross and twisted it into the goal, hitting the left post.
"I really thought it was unlikely for me to be chosen, but I am very grateful to have been chosen and not only grateful, but also had the desire to repay the favor with results. I myself wanted to express my gratitude through results, so I am very happy to have scored one point and achieved results like this."
Kimura, who contributed to two consecutive clean sheets, said, "I am really happy to be able to come back to the national team again, as I had strong feelings of regret. The man who looks forward is leading the team's defense in search of even better results."
Only two more wins until securing a ticket to the Paris Olympics. The minimum requirement is to advance through the next quarterfinal round. The highly anticipated match against host country Qatar will kick off at 23:00 on April 25th (Thursday) in Japan time. Keep an eye on the blue and red warriors as they fight for the world while wearing the Japanese flag on their backs.
text by Ryohei Hayashi (football journalist)
photo by Kenichi Arai
