Match Review: Hibernians FC vs FC Nippon

• GK Billy Wyatt
• DF Patrick Parkinson
• DF Jack Graham
• DF Sam McGough
• DF Jaison Kimura
• MD Misra Maayan
• MD Will Julius
• MD Matthew Yeo
• MD Tiago Coelho
• ST David Bolton
• ST Selvageethan Nedunchezian

• DF Hayden Gray
• MD Josh Brimblecombe
• MD Pedro Parra
• ST Jerome Van Doorn

Hibs Fall Short Despite Second-Half Surge

A disappointing 3-0 loss to Nippon leaves Hibs with plenty to ponder, despite an improved second-half performance. Congratulations to Nippon on a well-deserved victory. They were clinical in taking their chances, maintained excellent possession throughout the match, and could have extended their lead with several long-range efforts and last-gasp clearances from Bill. *First-Half* The opening 45 minutes were characterized by a passive Hibs approach, allowing Nippon too much time and space on the ball. While the intention may have been to frustrate the opposition and hit them on the counter, generous defending led to goals that visibly deflated the team. Hibs build-up play was sloppy, with too many misplaced passes and a lack of composure on the ball with Nippon quicker to every 50-50 challenge. Hibs were unable to find Bolt's feet at any point during the match, further limiting our attacking options. Hibs did have multiple set-piece opportunities but deliveries throughout the team were poor. *Second Half* With Jaison switching from center-back to central midfield at half-time, this injected much-needed energy and intensity into the midfield. Hibs pressed higher up the pitch, winning the ball in dangerous areas and forcing turnovers. Jerome and Pedro's introductions were great, too, and created several openings out wide. However, we continued to fail to find Bolt's feet which stymied most attacks. The defensive line was strong with 10+ offsides throughout the match, limiting Nippon's chances. However, just one lapse in concentration allowed Nippon to score their third in the closing stages. *Positives to Build On* Despite the loss, there were encouraging signs for Hibs. The second-half pressing and attacking intent demonstrated the team's fighting spirit and desire. The improved defensive line, coupled with Jaison's intensity and impact in midfield, offers a blueprint for future success.

• Takaki NAKAMURA GK
• Katsumi Oku DF
• Yuki Ichikawa DF
• Yusuke Kameya DF
• Ryusei Okada MD
• Ryohei Kanzaki MD
• Takuto Furuya MD
• Ryosuke Matsui MD
• Daichi Okamoto ST
• Takuya Hagino ST
• Kenshiro Ichikawa --

• Yu Koike DF
• Shungo Sakamoto MD
• Ryuhei IKEDA MD
• Lee Tadanari ST
• Tadanari Lee --

Cosmo League Opener: Commanding 3-0 Victory Over Hibs Sets the Tone for the Season

The stage was set for the Cosmo League opener, with our squad facing Hibs. With the ambition to start the season on a high note, the target was a decisive victory with a margin of least three goals. The players were focused, determined to make a statement from the first whistle. The opening exchanges were intense, with both teams probing for weaknesses. However, it was our side that struck first, capitalizing on a well-executed set piece. In the 15th minute, Ryusei delivered a pinpoint corner that was changed course by Ichi's head and found Daichi in the box. Daichi connected perfectly with the ball, sending a powerful shot past the helpless goalkeeper. The early 1-0 lead was a testament to our set-piece prowess and set the tone for the rest of the match. Shortly after the opener, a tactical substitution was made to bolster our midfield. Matsui, who had put in a solid shift, was replaced by Ike in the 17th minute to bring fresh energy and maintain our dominance in the center of the park. As the first half progressed, Hibs began to apply pressure, but our defense, marshaled brilliantly by Ichi remained unyielding. Just before the break, another critical moment unfolded. In the 44th minute, Ryusei, showing his usual flair, made a sharp turn inside the penalty area, drawing a clumsy challenge from a Hibs defender. The referee had no hesitation and pointed to the spot. Ryusei stepped up and coolly dispatched the penalty, doubling our lead to 2-0 just before halftime. With a comfortable lead, we made another adjustment at the break. Kame, who had been a tireless worker down the flank, made way for Jun, adding a fresh dynamic to our attack as we looked to exploit the tiring legs of the Hibs defenders. The second half saw Hibs revert to their characteristic style, opting for long balls and physical challenges in an attempt to disrupt our rhythm. But our defense was resolute. Each high ball was met with a determined header, and every loose ball was swiftly cleared. As the match entered the final stages, our tactical discipline and patient build-up play paid off once more. In the 78th minute, Kenshiro, with his vision and precision, split the Hibs defense with a perfectly weighted through ball. Lee, showing his experience and calm under pressure, latched onto the pass and slotted it home with clinical precision, putting the game beyond reach at 3-0. In the 75th minute, with the game all but secured, Ryusei was given a well-deserved rest, making way for Shungo to add fresh legs and see out the match. The final whistle blew with our team celebrating a well-earned 3-0 victory, a perfect start to our Cosmo League campaign. Next, we turn our attention to the upcoming clash against Hotspurs on September 15th, where we’ll look to build on this momentum and continue our march towards the league title.