Miracle Comeback: J2 Shimizu Coach Akiba Overcome with Emotion as Nishizawa Returns to Lead Derby Win
Meiji Yasuda J2 League Round 32: Shimizu Secures Comeback Victory Over Fujieda
In a thrilling derby between prefectural teams, Shimizu secured a comeback victory thanks to a goal and an assist from midfielder Kenta Nishizawa (28), who returned to the starting lineup for the first time in about four months after suffering a serious fracture of his right collarbone.
During the post-match press conference, director Tadahiro Akiba (48) was overcome with emotion when asked about Nishizawa’s performance. “He’s a player who’s been watching this club longer than me and has grown up. I thought he would definitely make it. Of all the tasks, Kenta (Nishizawa) completed an incredible task. I was speechless when I said, ‘Normally I can’t do things like shoot or provide assists.’ Holding the corners of his eyes, he wiped away tears and said, ‘I’m sorry… it’s unbelievable. You tend to cry easily when you get older.'”
The coach, aware of Nishizawa’s difficulties before his return, said: “I think Kenta’s feelings and those of the fan family have transferred to him and sucked him into scoring goals. I want him to continue like this and play six more games with fair and high-level competition,” he said passionately.
Key Match Statistics
- Match: Shimizu vs Fujieda
- Score: 3-2
- Competition: Meiji Yasuda J2 League Round 32
- Date: 22 September 2024
- Venue: Fujieda Sports Park Soccer Field
Related Topics
- Shimizu
- Coach Akiba
- Kenta Nishizawa
- Meiji Yasuda J2 League
- Fujieda