Itakura: Saudi Arabia is stronger than China, so we need to put as much pressure on them as possible

After a 2-0 victory over China, after a brief overhaul, the Japanese team re-entered training on the 28th local time and prepared for the round of 12 against Saudi Arabia on February 1. Before the match, Japan international Itakura Washiba was interviewed and looked forward to the game.

Itakura said: "When playing against the Chinese team, my spirit was highly concentrated, and before the game, I was thinking that if I didn't defeat China, let alone the opponent after that, we also won the game smoothly. ”

"Unlike the Chinese team, the Saudi team is much higher than the Chinese team in terms of the individual ability of the players, the speed of advancement and the intensity of the game. We must be uplifted and fully prepared to face this opponent. Given the speed with which they defend against the counterattack, it is important to keep the backline focused as the team attacks forward in case the opponent fights back. ”

"Before the match, we must fully investigate each opponent, and the back line should also maintain smooth communication during the game, and when defending the opponent's counterattack, not only must we arrange 1 person to keep an eye on the ball carrier, but the surrounding players must observe the movements of other players on the opponent and wait for the opportunity to support."

"Against China, Akigo Taniguchi and I could hold the ball smoothly in the rear, Andabi Tanaka and Hideshi Morida were always ready to receive the ball, I just needed to pass the ball to them steadily. Against Saudi Arabia, we didn't know how to pass the ball as calmly as we did against China, so we had to pass the ball more forward and put as much pressure on the opponent as possible. Of course, we must always observe the situation on the field and see the opportunity to give the opponent a fatal blow. ”

"Playing two games at home in a row, I feel supported from all sides here, and at the same time I am more accustomed to food and other aspects than I am in foreign countries, which is like a dream. I also want to focus more on football and try to play more for the team and win two consecutive home games. ”

(Jaden)