Kensuke NAGAI
"We were conscious of defending from an aggressive front line, and at halftime, we confirmed with each other to maintain a compact formation and press forward when possible. We defended with a back-to-the-wall approach towards the end of the game, but that was also because everyone was aware of the importance of the team winning convincingly. As for the scoring opportunity, I thought Shoya NAKAJIMA would cut in and take a shot. Yu OKUBO and I reacted to it and closed in, creating a situation where the opponent's defenders were caught in between. I think it made it difficult for them to clear the ball. Most importantly, winning the opening game, where we wanted the result, is a very significant thing. We want to ride this wave."

Kosuke OTA
"The game went as expected. We had several opportunities from set plays, so it would have been better if we could score from there. I want to increase the number of goals from set plays this season. As for defense, the players in the front line are actively pressing, making it easier for us as defenders to target the opponent's ball. We were able to win the ball back many times, especially against Kashima's forwards. In the past, we often lost the ball after that, but this season we have been able to connect neatly from there, often ending with a shot or winning a corner kick. I think it's a good start to the season."

[Summary of Coach Yoshiyuki SHINODA's Press Conference]
"First and foremost, it was very good to be able to win 3 points."
There were some tough moments in the opening game, and we saw such plays throughout the game, but they approached it with a challenger's mindset.
When facing Kashima, it is important to pick up the second ball and connect it ourselves. It is difficult to break through until the goal, but I feel like we have taken a step forward anyway.
Also, many fans and supporters came to support us, and they gave us a boost. For us, these 3 points are a new step forward.
"We want to prepare thoroughly for the next game starting from here."

[Kashima・Masatada ISHII Coach's Press Conference Summary]
"Many fans and supporters came to the stadium looking forward to today's opening match and cheered for the players, but unfortunately we suffered a disappointing defeat."
The first half was a half where we couldn't quite bring the ball to a deep position in the opponent's territory, and it was a first half that gave the impression of enduring a little.
In the second half, there was a prediction that the opponent's pace would also decrease a little, and as the time of ball possession increased little by little, we created many chances there, but we couldn't finish them off.
"We have the ACL coming up in two days, so we want to switch our focus to that."