The high school soccer championships are just around the corner, and teams across Japan are ramping up preparations with impressive talent and diverse strategies. Among the most anticipated teams is 大津 from 熊本, which boasts key players like captain DF 五嶋夏生, MF 嶋本悠大, who is already signed with 清水エスパルス, and skillful FW 山下景司. This trio, along with other talented players, strengthens the team’s chances of capturing their first championship title.
Head coach 山城朋大 is optimistic about this year’s squad, stating, “We have players who excel in height, speed, and ball possession, making this our year's great strength.” With such varied skill sets, 大津 aims to start their championship run strong, facing 福井商’s newly implemented 3-back strategy. 福井商 has adopted this approach to become more attacking and dangerous, particularly through side attacks orchestrated by midfielders 谷口櫂我 and 松田琉音.
Looking beyond the opening match, if 大津 wins, they could meet the formidable 札幌大谷 from 北海道, who are fresh off their debut qualification and have potential game-changers like MF 笹修大 and talented U-17 players like DF 大石蓮斗. This matchup poses another exciting challenge, especially since 札幌大谷’s diverse attack is marked by their long throw ability—an invaluable asset in tournament play.
Another strong contender is 流通経済大柏 from 千葉, boasting skilled players such as 湘南ベルマーレ-bound DF 松本果成 and the versatile MF 亀田歩夢. Their game style emphasizes adaptability, where players can shift positions fluidly based on the match's flow. Coach 榎本雅大 shared insight on team dynamics, noting, “We adjust our configurations to allow players to play to their strengths, making them more apt to tackle the opposition’s defense.”
Meanwhile, 岡山学芸館 presents another competitive threat. Although they missed out on the Inter-High this year, their impressive run in the Prince China league—with just one loss—showcases their caliber. Their attack is fueled by formidable forwards 太田修次郎 and 香西健心, and they rely heavily on talented midfielders like 岡野錠司 and 池上大慈 to initiate offense and create scoring opportunities.
Other teams, such as 藤井学園寒川 and 日章学園, emerge as dark horses, equipped with their own standout talents and distinctive strategies. 藤井学園寒川, having developed strong defensive skills during their stint at the Prince Shikoku league, is enthusiastic about their attack led by MF 伊藤瑛規 and MF 田北海翔, aiming for surprising off-the-ball plays.
日章学園’s new players like FW 高岡伶颯 and MF 南創太 from 仙台 have formed dynamic partnerships, strengthening their midfield connections. Their captain DF 堀田昊生 leads with resilience, hoping to continue their solid performance from previous tournaments.
The road through this championship, though filled with uncertainty, promises excitement as teams clash on the field. Each match presents unique challenges and opportunities to shine for players aspiring for recognition, whether through potential college placement or hallmark personal triumphs.
For teams like 徳島市立, aggressive tactics led by midfielders 山口凜太朗 and 上田寛大 mark their preparation, with their willingness to attack the goal at every chance. Conversely, 上田西 (長野) aims to build their success on strong defensive plays, especially with FW 松本翔琉 pushing toward counterattacks from defensive holds.
With such intense competition on the horizon, hook your eyes on these promising high school teams. Whether it’s the raw talent or the brilliant game strategies, these athletes are primed for memorable performances and are ready to showcase their skills as they strive for excellence on the national stage.
