《Akihiro HAYASHI Player》

(Reviewing today's game)
"Playing a perfect game is difficult, especially when the team is not in good condition and playing at the opponent's home. We wanted to secure a victory to have an advantage in the next second match. We knew it would be a tough game, and there were areas where we could have been more efficient in defense and attack given the circumstances. However, the most important thing was the result, so we are glad that we were able to secure a solid victory."

(Could this victory be a good opportunity?)
"There were parts of today's game where we felt confident, and even in the games we lost, there were good aspects. However, only the results were not left. Today, we thought about how to achieve good results by leaving a mark, and we need to think even more."

(There was a big save today)
"As a team, they were able to limit the course well, so it wasn't that difficult to stop. However, it doesn't mean that there are many pinches just because shots are being taken, but rather whether they can limit the course within those shots. Perfect defense is not something that can be done every game, and I think it would be easier if we could have a more flexible mindset like 'It's okay to let them shoot in these situations.' Of course, I still think we can prevent shots, and even if shots are allowed, we need to limit the shooting course with things like body orientation."

(Towards the weekend game)
"I want to approach the weekend game with a fresh mindset. In the Iwata match, I was involved in conceding 2 goals, so I really wanted to win today and connect this game to the league matches. I have made up my mind to communicate my thoughts more and more, so I also want to start discussing things that the team cannot be satisfied with from now on."

Takuma ABE player
(Please review the scoring scene)
"I was prepared for a left-footed cross from player Ogawa. I had to readjust my position because I was caught offside. If it was a right-footed cross, I expected the ball to come in that trajectory, so I was able to connect with it."

(Did the game progress in our favor with Takumi ABE's opening goal?)
"It was just before the end of the first half, and I think it was a good timing."

(I think we have been struggling to score the second goal recently, but could this be a turning point?)
"We had several chances today but couldn't score the second goal, so we need to finish them off properly."

(Although it was a victory amidst a three-game losing streak, how do you plan to build on this win?)
"Certainly, without a victory, it's hard to stay motivated and there are times when we feel down, so it's good that we were able to win in the full 90 minutes."

(The 2nd round is about a month away, but what parts of the Hiroshima match did you feel you were able to grasp the feeling of how to fight?)
"I felt that if we move together, pass the ball and fight, we can create chances. I want to do the same in the 2nd round without changing that."

"Summary of Yoshiyuki SHINODA's press conference"
"It was a big win for the team thanks to the players' efforts and the support of the fans. It would have been better if we could have scored the first goal earlier and taken the lead by scoring the second and third goals. We are struggling to score not only the first goal but also additional goals, and there were many issues in today's game. We made adjustments to the system during the game, but I think there were opportunities to go forward a little earlier overall, and we want to work on that while practicing. We haven't achieved anything yet, but we want to prepare for the second match in a month's time. We have a league match in three days, so I hope we can all prepare for the game together."

《Q&A》
Q=What did you think about Hiroshima's fresh members?
"First of all, I felt from the beginning that the opponent was fresh. They are a very cohesive team, and no matter who plays, Hiroshima plays soccer like they did today, so they were a very difficult opponent. In today's match, we needed a victory, so Morishige and Hayashi played in consecutive matches, but we used fresh players for the other positions. I think we were able to handle such players well."

Q=Recently, our team has been struggling to score a second goal. Today, we were unable to score a second goal again. If you have any suggestions or strategies for the future, please let us know.
"We couldn't break down the opponent who defended with a 5-4-1 formation, but we want to take the positive aspect of scoring a goal. However, considering the away goal, we needed to score a second goal. We have to do it together. There were several chances, including Ryoichi MAEDA and set plays, from the first half, so we need the ability to finish them off. I think we can raise our level by scoring an additional goal. When we are in a situation where we can't win, there is a tendency to focus on defending a one-goal lead, so I think it is necessary for the group to train firmly to overcome that."

"Summary of Hiroshima Coach Hajime Moriyasu's Press Conference"
"First of all, I would like to express my gratitude to the many supporters who came to cheer us on despite it being a weekday night. The first 90 minutes of the Levain Cup playoff stage have ended, and we are currently trailing 0-1. In terms of performance, we were aggressive both in attack and defense and were able to create chances. We have a tough second leg away game ahead of us, but we want to convert the chances that we couldn't capitalize on in today's match and advance with a victory. The players have bravely taken on the challenge, and it can be seen in a positive light. There is no doubt that they have put in a great effort."
However, there is also reflection. It's not just today, but we have been losing in close matches despite playing well. Today, we conceded a goal by being caught off guard. Wins, losses, and draws. It may seem like a narrow margin, but it is significant. We need to address it as a team issue. We have to be thorough and push ourselves.
"The players also said, 'The performance was good. Both individually and as a team. However, we are losing as a result. We need to focus on the momentary opportunity and not let it slip away.'"

《Q&A》
Q=About Tsukasa SHIOTANI.
"I am grateful that he chose Hiroshima even though there were offers from other teams when he transferred from Mito. We fought together, grew together, won titles, and he played for the Japan national team. He gained various experiences in Hiroshima, including participating in the Olympics, and we shared many joys. Wonderful memories."
Next is a new challenge. As a teammate who fought together in a different team, I am praying for success at Al Ain."

Q=There is still one month until the second leg. How can we improve our scoring ability?
"There is only practice. I can create opportunities. The key is how relaxed I can be in the final moments. Can I make decisions naturally? There is pressure, so how much can I eliminate it? That's what it comes down to."