U17: Aspire Academy vs. Kashiwa Reysol Post Match Press Conference 19.02.2025

It was a tough day for both Aspire Academy and Kashiwa Reysol with both teams coming from previous losses, but Aspire Academy Head Coach Alvaro Mejia Perez chooses to see the big picture with the improvements in his team, Perez said addressing the media at a post-match press conference.\

The final match saw Aspire Academy placing 6th at the tournament after losing to Kashiwa Reysol through penalty shootouts.

Perez said the team found its timing during the second half and created three to four chances for a goal, but it was a tough day for both teams who missed the opportunity to reach the finals.

Perez admitted that the team was not happy for not making it through the next round, but he also stressed that he was pleased with his team’s performance overall, adding that the players created a lot of chances during the games, and the team developed a stronger bond while playing together throughout the tournament.

Aspire Academy is expected to play in another two international tournaments this year.

Also addressing a press conference after winning 5th place after defeating Aspire Academy, Kashiwa Reysol Head Coach Tatsuro Shida said the team wasn’t able to achieve their target of winning the championship but were still pleased to win their final match at the tournament.