On April 29, 2025, the J1 League showcased an exciting match between FC Tokyo and Shimizu S-Pulse at Ajinomoto Stadium. This encounter marked the 13th round of the league, and it was a crucial game for both teams. Shimizu, aiming for their first three-game winning streak of the season, came into the match with momentum after a strong performance in their last outing. Meanwhile, FC Tokyo, having recently secured a victory against Gamba Osaka, was eager to build on their success.
The match kicked off with Shimizu asserting their dominance early on, pushing into the FC Tokyo half and creating opportunities. However, it was FC Tokyo that had the first notable chance. In the 16th minute, forward Marcelo Hian responded to a long feed from midfielder Kohei Shirai, taking a shot that was saved by Shimizu's goalkeeper, Okusa Yuya. The rebound fell to teammate Takahito Nakagawa, but his follow-up effort was also thwarted by Okusa, showcasing the goalkeeper's impressive reflexes.
Shimizu continued to press, and in the 24th minute, they earned a corner kick. Forward Hangyo Kitagawa rose to meet the cross but saw his header saved again by FC Tokyo's goalkeeper, Daishi Nozawa Brandon. Despite the early exchanges, it remained goalless as both teams struggled to capitalize on their chances.
As the first half progressed, Shimizu found their rhythm, and in a pivotal moment just before halftime, they were awarded a penalty kick. In the 45+1 minute, Takashi Inui was brought down in the box by FC Tokyo's midfielder Kota Tawaratsuda after a well-timed attack. Hangyo Kitagawa stepped up to take the penalty, showing composure as he slotted the ball into the right corner of the net, giving Shimizu a crucial 1-0 lead. This goal marked Kitagawa's fourth penalty conversion of the season and his sixth overall goal.
With the scoreline favoring the visitors, FC Tokyo faced an uphill battle in the second half. They attempted to regroup and find an equalizer, but Shimizu's defense held strong. In the 19th minute, Hian had another opportunity, heading a cross from Shirai, but once again, the ball went wide of the target.
Shimizu, maintaining their attacking momentum, continued to threaten FC Tokyo's goal. In the 52nd minute, Kitagawa aimed for a free kick just outside the penalty area, but it failed to find the back of the net. FC Tokyo’s attempts to counter were met with resistance, as their forward players struggled to penetrate Shimizu's organized defense.
The turning point came in the 79th minute when Takashi Inui, showcasing his skills, dribbled from the center circle into the penalty area. He executed a clever crotch chop to evade a defender, then unleashed a right-footed shot. The ball deflected off a defender, changing its trajectory and ultimately finding its way into the goal. This was Inui's second goal of the season and effectively sealed the match for Shimizu, bringing the score to 2-0.
In the dying moments of the game, FC Tokyo launched a desperate offensive, trying to break through Shimizu's defense. Despite their efforts and several crosses into the box, they could not find a way past Okusa, who remained resolute in goal.
As the final whistle blew, Shimizu S-Pulse celebrated a well-deserved 2-0 victory, marking their first three-game winning streak since November-December 2021. The win lifted their points tally to 21, while FC Tokyo suffered their fourth loss in a row, leaving them searching for answers as they move forward in the season.
Shimizu's head coach praised his team's performance, stating, "The players executed the game plan perfectly, and we showed resilience and skill throughout the match." Meanwhile, FC Tokyo's coach acknowledged the need for improvement, emphasizing the importance of converting chances into goals.
This match not only showcased the talent of both teams but also highlighted the competitive nature of the J1 League this season. Fans can look forward to seeing how FC Tokyo responds in their upcoming fixtures as they strive to regain their form, while Shimizu will aim to continue their winning streak and climb the league table.
