Motoki Hashioka made headlines during his coaching debut with the U-18 Japan National Team, leading the squad to victory over the Japan High School Soccer Selection with a decisive score of 4-1 during the NEXT GENERATION MATCH held on February 8, 2024. This match took place at the iconic National Stadium, marking not only Hashioka's introduction as coach but also showcasing the bright future of Japanese soccer.
The event was noteworthy as it highlighted the emergence of talented young players, particularly 15-year-old Kaishi Naganuma from Kashiwa Reysol U-18, who scored one of the key goals of the match. Former Japan national player Yoichiro Kakitani acted as the coach for the U-18 J.League Selection and expressed his joy and pride at directing such promising talent.
"It was really great for me to fight alongside players who will carry Japan's future, even for just a moment. I felt so much affection for them. Coaches must be feeling this incredible feeling too," Kakitani reflected after the match, emphasizing the deep connection he felt with the young athletes.
The U-18 J.League Selection established their dominance early on, with notable performances from players like Munenori Yoshida, who opened the scoring first, leading to celebrations all around the bench. Kakitani, who is preparing to retire at the end of the 2024 season, noted his excitement and pride overseeing such gifted youngsters taking the field.
Throughout the match, Naganuma, who managed to excel on his debut stage, exhibited not just skill but remarkable composure and confidence. Despite feeling fatigued late in the game, he managed to score the fourth goal just seconds before the match concluded, capping off his performance with celebration and recognition from his coach.
With just seconds left on the clock, Naganuma received the ball on the left flank and, resisting the urge to pass, he made the bold decision to take it himself and fired home with aplomb. Kakitani praised the teenager, stating, "I thought Kaishi was out of gas, but he said he was resting for the last phase, and I was pleasantly surprised." This moment not only showcased Naganuma’s potential but also conveyed the emotional investment Kakitani has made during this match.
Kakitani's brief stint revealed much about his capabilities and feelings as both role model and coach. Despite enjoying mentoring the next generation, he humorously remarked on the challenges, stating: “Coaching is tough. I really felt it over one game even sitting there and watching.” His heart evidently lies within soccer even as he transitions away from coaching, indicating he will remain involved with the sport, albeit in new capacities.
Speaking to reporters, Naganuma shared, "It was my first time playing on such a big stage. I was nervous at first but was able to play as usual and score, so I’m glad." His candid reminder of the nerves all players face during significant matches underlines the importance of mental strength at both the youth and professional levels of sports.
The match's atmosphere, coupled with the bond between players and coaches, underlines the vitality of nurturing young talent for the future of Japanese soccer. The NEXT GENERATION MATCH fulfilled its promise, presenting not just a platform for young athletes like Naganuma to shine but also for coaches like Kakitani to realize the impact they have on the sport's future.
With the event wrapped up and lessons learned, the focus remains on the bright prospects of these young athletes and their paths moving forward. Hashioka's coaching debut symbolizes the hope and excitement surrounding Japan's football development, bringing energy to the upcoming years.