Gamba Osaka, while grappling with the tough schedule of competing in both the ACL Elite and league matches, is gradually beginning to show signs of growth as a team. Although their away game against Pohang Steelers ended in a disappointing draw, their most recent league match against Machida was more than even, demonstrating solid progress in both offense and defense.
Head Coach Myojin expressed a certain degree of confidence in the team's progress, which has seen them remain undefeated in seven official matches, saying, "We've been building up our offensive and defensive capabilities, as well as the overall performance of the team, during these nine consecutive matches, and we've been able to show a lot of good things in many games."

Gamba will face Cerezo Osaka in the Osaka Derby, which will be the final match of their nine-game stretch. For Head Coach Myojin, who has known the weight of a match with the name of "Osaka" on the line since his playing days, this will be his first derby as a manager. Of course, it would be best if the performance was good, but "I think the Osaka Derby is not just one of 38 matches, and I know that it is more important than any other match," says Head Coach, who is well aware that the mission for Gamba is nothing less than victory.

At the end of the last round, Gamba was in 17th place, while Cerezo Osaka was in 12th. However, as we can see from past derbies, regardless of the standings or team situation, the characteristic of a derby is that both teams clash with their pride and determination.
JEBALI's words, which demonstrate not only technical skill but also dedication on the front lines, encapsulate all the elements required of Gamba. "At home, we have the best support from our fans, so we must not forget to keep our hearts burning, our spirits forward, and our determination to defeat our opponents."

Spanish manager Head Coach, who took over in July, is known for his use of a three-man defense, and Cerezo Osaka has been playing with a three-man defense as the basis this season. However, they have not won in their last eight league matches, with five draws and three losses. Manager Myojin said that there is a possibility that they will make tactical adjustments, so "they may change the system, or they may add more players with height up Head Coach, so we are anticipating all possibilities," but at the same time, he emphasized that "what is important is what kind of play we can show."

From the moment of kickoff, Gamba will aggressively pressure their opponents and take control of the game. "Rather than worrying about what the opponent does, if we play well, I don't think they can do anything," Abe said, focusing solely on Gamba's own style of play.

While Cerezo Osaka's approach remains unclear, they have several new signings, including JACKSON IRVINE Irvine, who has represented Australia in three FIFA World Cups, dribbler Omi, who is on loan from Kashiwa, and Colombian attacker Pablo Saback. They also have Sakuragawa, who is strong in aerial duels, so they cannot afford to fall behind in defense in front of their goal. However, goalkeeper Higashiguchi, who will be playing his 400th J1 match if he takes to the pitch in this game, showed his impressive presence in the match against Machida, and Gamba is ready to demonstrate their strength in both attack and defense.
We are Osaka—the time has come to share this moment of joy with our supporters.