'Championship Frustration' Japanese Coach's Eyes Turn Red: "My Hometown North Korea Had Enough Qualities to Be Champion" [Suwon Field]

*This content was translated by AI.

In the 2025-2026 AFC Women's Asian Champions League (AWCL) final, Tokyo Verdy Belleza coach Kusunose Naoki, who lost to North Korea's Naeghyang Women's Football Club and failed to win the championship, acknowledged the defeat, stating, "My hometown demonstrated the indomitable spirit worthy of a champion."

Coach Kusunose said at a press conference after the 2025-2026 AWCL final match against Naeghyang ended in a 0-1 loss at Suwon Sports Complex on the 23rd, resulting in a missed championship, "I believe Naeghyang had sufficient qualities to be champions."

On this day, Tokyo Verdy conceded the first goal to Kim Gyeong-yeong in the 44th minute of the first half and could not overcome it, ultimately failing to win the championship. Last November, during the group stage match in Myanmar, Tokyo had secured a decisive 4-0 victory, but in this championship-deciding final, they experienced a painful defeat.

With eyes reddened by regret over the failed championship, Coach Kusunose remarked, "It was a very regrettable result. The players gave their all, but they were overwhelmed by the opponent's power." He added, "We wanted to overcome through our own style of football, but we were pushed back by the opponent's pressure. We had chances, and even in a situation with many injuries, the players did their best."

Continuing, Coach Kusunose stated, "I tried to encourage the players who were being too passive, but mentally we were pushed back, and eventually we were overwhelmed in the second half. In the final, mental strength is ultimately crucial. We appeared weak, while the opponent showed strength, which likely determined the outcome." He concluded, "In such a major tournament, I once again realized the importance of mental strength to fight and win. I hope to return to this tournament after returning to Japan and developing the team further."

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*This content was translated by AI.