The 2024 All Japan High School Soccer Championship preliminary rounds kicked off with intense matches showcasing the talents of high school athletes and the passion of their supporters.
On January 4, two quarterfinal matches were held at Chiba’s Fukuda Electronic Arena, with the most anticipated clash being between Ryutsu Keizai University Kashiwa and Ueda Nishi High School. Ryutsu Keizai demonstrated their prowess by eliminating the reigning champions, Otsu High School, showing their determination to claim their second championship crown after 17 years. Key players like FW9 Haruta Yamano, who quickly netted the first goal, led the charge, supported by over 14,000 local fans who cheered them on.
The atmosphere was electric as the champion pursuit continued. Yamano's extraordinary speed and tactical awareness were pivotal, allowing him to capitalize on minute opportunities created by the team’s cohesive play. The event not only illustrated the drive to succeed but also highlighted future stars of the sport.
Meanwhile, on January 2, Ueda Nishi High School faced off against Yaita Chuo High School, earning a 2-0 victory to advance to the quarterfinals. The game started on shaky ground for Ueda Nishi as the team conceded an early penalty due to a foul by DF Souta Kochiya. Yet, the team rallied under the leadership of goalkeeper Kenta Makino, who delivered a stunning save to keep them in the match.
Makino's effort was not just about physical skill but also showcased his psychological readiness, as he stated, "I’ve been training hard for penalty kicks. I just tried to approach the moment like it was practice and not let the pressure get to me." With teamwork holding firm, Ueda Nishi’s defense withstood attacks from Yaita Chuo throughout the game.
Eastern Japan's champions enjoyed great unity on the pitch. Kochiya, distressed after his early misstep, found resolve as he shared, "It was all about restoring confidence and scoring to make up for my mistake." He did precisely this by attacking the goal with fervor, eventually slotting one home to put his team on the board and ignite hopes of advancement.
With their eyes set on the trophy, Ueda Nishi's spirit was palpable as they continued to defend their goal fiercely. The second goal, scored through superb teamwork, sealed their victory when Ryuuji Yamauchi, who had just joined the match as a substitute, executed a long throw to forward Matoi Yanagisawa, who managed to head it past the goalkeeper.
Ueda Nishi's players echoed sentiments of ambition and heart. Kochiya acknowledged, "We’re just fighting spirit and tenacity. Our aim is to defy expectations." Makino added with determination, "Facing top-class forwards excites me! I want to prove our worth without fear of being unknown." This kind of mentality acts as the bedrock for their aspirations as they seek to make history for their school and region.
This year’s tournament not only serves as a platform for future professional players but also marks the culmination of countless hours of training, dedication, and passion from these young athletes.