Qatar center-back Takehiro Tomiyasu wants Japan to attack first to extinguish Indonesia's momentum in the final round of Group D of the 2023 Asian Cup.
"I know for sure that this will not be an easy match. The two matches against Vietnam and Iraq really made me realize that the Asian Cup and Asian teams are not easy to play against," Tomiyasu said at a press conference before the match at Al Thumama Stadium. "We watched the loss to Iraq. Indonesia still have a chance to go through so we need to avoid being overwhelmed by their momentum. On the contrary, Japan need to attack first and beat them."
Tomiyasu playing for Japan in their 1-2 loss to Iraq on January 19. Photo: Arsenal.com
Joining Japan injured, Tomiyasu has not started any of the first two matches of Group D. He did not play in the 4-2 win over Vietnam on January 14. In the 1-2 loss to Iraq five days later, the Arsenal midfielder was brought on after half-time when Japan were trailing 0-2.
Losing to Iraq means Japan will no longer have a chance to top Group D. They need to beat Indonesia in the final round to secure a place in the round of 16. Japan's performance in the past two matches has been unconvincing. Therefore, coach Hajime Moriyasu will likely urge his players to give their all against Indonesia to regain the trust of the fans. Tomiyasu could start after recovering his fitness.
Coach Moriyasu recently caused controversy with his statement before the match against Indonesia. He revealed that his coaching style mainly allows players to give their own opinions and draw lessons. The coach only plays the role of making the final decision after each meeting.
Commenting on the coach's way of working, Tomiyasu said: "It's not a negative way of working, it's a positive way. It shows that coach Moriyasu trusts the players. Therefore, the players fight for him, trust him. This is not a symbiotic relationship. This way of working motivates the players to perform on the field."
The 25-year-old centre-back revealed that he and his teammates often adjust the way they play on the pitch. The decision makers are usually himself, captain Wataru Endo and a group of leaders. Tomiyasu asserted that the Japanese players are capable of making small adjustments without consulting coach Moriyasu.
Vinh San (according to Soccer-King )
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