With the season drawing to a close, Gamba continues to struggle frustratingly. Despite being on the brink of winning their first match in eight games, they conceded a disappointing equalizing goal in added time in the second half against Tokyo Verdy, and were unable to regain their momentum and win the match.
Usami, who set up DAWHAN's goal with a superb pass that broke through Tokyo Verdy's sturdy defense, spoke of the frustration felt by all Gamba players, saying, "All of the players have the desire and feeling to win, but we also feel pain and stress." But this is precisely why he is so determined to win the Osaka Derby, which has the power to turn the stagnant flow of the team around.
"I think that no matter what the situation, the Derby can dramatically change something or act as a powerful medicine," said Usami.
This derby, which was postponed due to Typhoon No. 10, is an important race that could be a turning point for the team's comeback at the end of the season.

For each match, Coach Head Coach conducts thorough scouting based on the opponent and implements team tactics, but he is well aware that the derby is a special match in which the positions and team conditions of each team will not be of any use.
"It's important to fight with all your heart and to have the fighting spirit to fight for someone. I want you to fully express your competitive spirit and want to beat this opponent," said Head Coach Poyatos.
This derby is a chance for the team to achieve their first double in six seasons, but the key to success on the pitch is to play in a way that responds to how their opponents play. This season, they have played against Kashiwa with a four-back formation that emphasizes ball possession, but in their last ten games they have one win, four draws and five losses. For this reason, they played against Kashiwa in the previous match with a three-back formation, and showed a strong defensive performance.
"We are well prepared whether the opponent's final line has five or four players, so there will be no problem," said Head Coach Poyatos, vowing to take all necessary measures to win, but the struggle to break through Tokyo Verdy's solid defense should undoubtedly serve as a lesson for the team.
Suzuki, who will be visiting his former club, is also putting in his energy. "We played against a five-man back line in the Tokyo Verdy match, and even if they play with a five-man back line this time, we all share the same attacking style, so I want to use that," he said.

On the other hand, the key to victory is Usami, who has embodied the pride of the Blue and Black in the derby since his days at the academy. "They are an opponent we must beat no matter what, and we all understand that. Naturally, I want to aim for goals, and if I can score, it will give the team a lot of momentum."
Usami led Gamba to victory with a goal on his birthday in the home derby, and we can expect him to give it his all as he approaches the opponent's goal.

The opponent that Gamba should be wary of is Leonardo De Sousa Pereira(LEO CEARA), who is currently in 9th place and is leading the scoring rankings with 20 goals. It is a must to shut down Leonardo De Sousa Pereira(LEO CEARA), who has the ability to score with one chance, but Kitano, who was raised in the academy, is also on the rise, so of course they need to be wary.
It would be better if the content could stand up, but with the big game in mind where victory is the only thing that is required, Suzuki declared, "We want all the players to make a breakthrough and win by doing something gritty."
It was Gamba who silenced the enemy ground and let out roars of joy along with their supporters.