Reo Hatate: “We played in 4-1-4-1 system again, but in the game against Peru, I was instructed to be involved in build-up in a position that was a little closer to anchor compared to the game against El Salvador.
“Peru has been pressing us powerfully, so I played with special awareness of off-the-ball movement so that Wataru Endo and Kamada can hold more of the ball without holding the ball by myself as much as possible.
“When I received the ball, I was conscious of shaking mark of opponent’s defender, and I think it was good that I was able to play like that during the game. In this game, I think I could have held the ball a little more myself, but I was able to play effectively while always thinking flexibility while grasping situation.
“I fully understood that Kamada is good at carrying the ball to attacking area, so I was conscious that I would play a role to support him when he received the ball. I also understood that Endo’s defensive range was wide, so I defended while being conscious that I would take the ball from opponent first.
“Japanese national team has many great IH, but I don’t think it’s necessary to try to get chances to play by nullifying my own strengths. If I get chances to play, I’ll just play with my own strengths.”
Kyogo’s post-match comments are next including what he had to say about Celtic…
