We won the AFC Champions League 2 away game against Nam Dinh FC 1-0, securing our place in the group stage. Before the tournament, I had heard that "overseas teams we face in the ACL play completely differently away than at home," and the match against Nam Dinh really brought that to light. We played differently both offensively and defensively than we do at home, and the second half in particular was a difficult game, so I'm glad we were able to score the opening goal in the first half.

With Takashi (Usami) showing up everywhere, I was also trying to aggressively jump into open spaces, and I predicted that Ryo (Hatsuse) might send a cross in early, but JEBALI drew the opposing DF in front, leaving me open, and then he sent a ball with a perfect trajectory that I just had to connect with. Looking at the 90 minutes, including the period that followed, we weren't able to play our own style of football, but we had to fight on many fronts, such as the long travel distance, the unique away feeling, and the change in the environment both on and off the pitch, so we were able to win, which gave us confidence. I'll use this experience to help us in this week's match against Vissel Kobe.

To be honest, I haven't played against Kobe much in the last two seasons. The only time I played was in last year's EMPEROR'S CUP final, where I came on in the 89th minute, but I was left with nothing but regret as I couldn't do anything. That's why I'm really looking forward to this match, and if I do play, I want to work backwards from the idea that we have to win at all costs, be aggressive, and dominate in the fight for the ball.

Kobe has a great lineup of talented players, so there are plenty of players to be wary of, including Yuya OSAKO, but personally, I'm really looking forward to facing Yosuke IDEGUCHI, whose play I've always looked up to. If I can win the battle against Ideguchi and nip their attacks in the bud, their offense will naturally stagnate, so I want to be the better player in each situation. Also, because Kobe has a strong secondary attack from Osako's post play, I think it's an important task for me to reliably pick up the second ball.

I am encouraged by the supporters and fans who always cheer us on with such powerful cheers that it feels like the stadium is shaking. I am happy to be able to play in such a special atmosphere. My current goal is to win all remaining matches, including the match against Kobe, so that I can share those moments of joy with you all. Personally, I would like to play in as many matches as possible, prove my strength, and close out the season. I look forward to your support.