Head Coach Myojin: "As this was the important first match of the EMPEROR'S CUP, I'm happy that we were able to win and advance to the third match. Also, despite it being a Wednesday match, so many supporters came out and cheered on the team, and I'm glad we were able to win at home. The players and we staff knew that the first match of the EMPEROR'S CUP would be a difficult one, not an easy one. However, we thought that how we approached the match, especially the start, was important. I think scoring early on was a big factor in deciding the match. From the moment of kickoff, the players played forward and went towards the goal. In addition to that, I think the quality of Takashi Usami's individual skill really came through. He has the skill, and everyone connected with him, so I think we had a very good start to the first half. There were other chances as well, and we wanted to score a third goal and decide the match. However, in the second half as well, they continued to go towards the goal and defend from the front, and I'm very satisfied with their attitude." However, we still lost possession of the ball too often, so that's an area we need to work on as a team, including what happens after we win the ball back. We'll make sure to correct that.

Q" "Regarding defense, we haven't seen many instances of pressing from the front in previous matches, but I think we saw it several times in today's game. It seems like the defensive aspect has become more organized, but how do you feel about that?"
Head Coach Myojin: "In this heat, I think it's necessary to use different defensive strategies, but we consciously worked on the aspect of pressing forward, which the team had been lacking, and I think the players did a good job. Of course, we were able to create opportunities for the ball, but there were also times when the opponent took possession. However, I think it's good that we were able to create opportunities for the ball as a whole team. What we could have done better in today's match was to not let the opponent get away in those situations, and to know where to track back when that area was breached."

Q: "You started Adams on the right wing, but I feel there's still room for improvement defensively. What are your thoughts on his current condition and how do you evaluate him?"
Head Coach Myojin: "Since joining the team, his condition and form have gradually improved, and I've always wanted to use him, but today I wanted to give him as much playing time as possible. First of all, I'm glad that we were able to do that. His left foot's driving force, ball retention, and ability to break through are very appealing. Of course, I think he needs to improve his defensive skills as well, so I want to work on that further while also increasing his play in front of goal and his involvement in scoring plays, which are his strengths. He really did try to go for the goal for the entire 90 minutes, and I was able to see that attitude and quality, so I'm satisfied with that."