On the 17th, after the Meiji Yasuda J1 League Round 17 match against FC Tokyo [MATCH PARTNER BizReach], Taishi Matsumoto, who scored two goals - his first home goal to tie the game and a dramatic comeback goal - looked back on Trial and his own goals.

"While the opponents had a lot of time early on, I think we gradually started to play our own style of football and there were many positive aspects to the game."

Was today's goal special?
"It was the first goal I've scored at home, and when I scored in the away game against Kashima Antlers, my goal didn't lead to a victory, so I'm really happy that my goal led to victory today."

(Looking back at the first point?)
"I was thinking of timing my move when Takuro (Kaneko) had the ball. I was thinking of switching positions when the opponent's line rose up, and the ball came at the right time."

What about the winning goal?
"The opponent was watching the ball, so I was glad that I was able to get into a good position, and I've always decided in practice that when Sekine (Takahiro) has the ball, I'll make a move. It worked out well, so I'm glad. I did my best on the shot."

(J-League chips were distributed to 2,000 people who won the lottery today.)
"I feel like I used to eat them when I was little, but I can't remember whose cards I had (laughs). I think it's great for livening up the J.League and getting people to recognize it, and I want to become a player that makes people happy if they win a card."

(What would you say to kids who want to become professional soccer players after watching Matsumoto play?)
"I grew up watching soccer at Saitama Stadium, so I hope today's goal will inspire dreams for kids like me."

Further comments and Trial photos can be viewed by site members.
■ Site Membership (330 yen/month/tax included) is here → https://sp.urawa-reds.co.jp/
*REX CLUB LOYALTY members can use the service free of charge.

[Urawa Reds Official Media (URD:OM)]