The Japan Futsal National Team, who will compete in the Thailand 5s International 4 Nation Futsal Championship 2016 from 20 August, had a final tune-up for their first game against Thailand on the 19th. For the Thailand game (focusing their practice simulating the tomorrow’s match against Thailand), they worked on 8-on-4 ball possession, 2-on-2 and 4-on-4 drills emphasizing on different plays in which they can penetrate through defence.

Japan coach SUZUKI Ryuji made on-the-spot corrections in order to effectively communicate the adjustments needed to improve their individual plays as well as that of the team. Occasionally, a heavy squall, which is not unusual in Thailand, hit during practice and it made it difficult for the coach to convey his message to the players. However, they practiced with high concentration and determination cancelling any turbulence caused by the rain.

At presser in the morning, Suzuki spoke about his strong expectations for his team in this tournament to the local media.

Japan Futsal National Team will face Thailand on Saturday 20 August.

【Thailand 5s International 4 Nation Futsal Championship 2016】*Local Time
Sat. 20 - 18:15 vs Thailand
Sun. 21 - 15:30 vs Kazakhstan
Tue. 23 - 17:00 vs Iran
Venue: Bangkok Arena

Players' Comments

GK #1  IWANAGA Taiki (VASAGEY OITA)
We spent the majority of our training in game format, focusing on communicating effectively amongst ourselves and defending collectively. The quality of goalkeeping training was excellent, thus making the overall practice productive. We would like to compete and win as a team tomorrow.

FP #13  MATSUBARA Tomohiro (NAGOYA OCEANS SATELLITE)
I expect some game-time jitters playing in my first international game tomorrow. However, as a member of the national squad representing Japan, I am determined to play courageously until the very end, and hopefully we will win the match.

FP #3  YONEDA Yoshitaka (Tama University Futsal Club)
We’ve finished the third day of our training. I think our training sessions have been superb. I expect a tough competition from Thailand tomorrow. However, as a member of the Japanese squad, I am determined to compete tenaciously and attain the desired result.

Schedule

*Local Time
*The schedule is subject to change due to the team condition, the weather, etc.