Suwon Samseong’s rebound began with a win over ‘leader’ Ulsan Hyundai. ‘New face’ Japanese midfielder Kazuki has emerged as a force to be reckoned with.
Suwon hosted ‘leader’ Ulsan in the 23rd round of the K League One 2023 on Friday at Suwon World Cup Stadium and won 3-1.
It was Suwon’s first win at home this season after 10 games. Suwon had been winless prior to the match, after winning away to Gangwon on May 13.스포츠토토
Against Ulsan, Kazuki, who Suwon signed on May 6, played a key role. He played 86 minutes against Daejeon (2-2 draw) on May 9, then played full time against Pohang (1-1 draw) on May 12, and then against Ulsan.
On this day, Kazuki played a key role in the first goal. In the 39th minute, he played a brilliant through ball to Jung Seung-won, who was deep down the right flank. He saved the ball from being knocked over as it headed off the line and sent in a cross for Jeon Jin-woo to head home. Kazuki’s wide vision played a big part in the goal.
Afterward, he continued to harass Ulsan by protecting Suwon’s midfield, and they managed to hold on for the win.
[OSEN=Suwon, Kyuhan Choi]Suwon’s Kazuki encourages his teammates in the second half. 2023.07.15 / dreamer@osen.co.kr
After representing Japan U-18s, Kazuki played for Alex Niigata (2013-2017), Banfore Kofu (2018), Oita Trinita (2019-2020) and Kawasaki Frontale (2021-2023). He has 28 goals and 42 assists in 210 J-League games.
“He has a wide range of vision and passing ability, and is praised for his build-up ability to transition from defense to offense,” Suwon said when they brought him in, “We expect to see more offensive opportunities with his presence.”
As expected, Kazuki has indeed created offensive opportunities for Suwon. In addition to his quick adaptation, he also seems to have brightened the mood of the squad.
“I’m getting a good influence from new players like Kazuki,” said Jeon Jin-woo after the win over Ulsan, “Especially Kazuki’s relaxed demeanor on the pitch makes me feel comfortable.” Kazuki is making a positive impact on and off the field. The atmosphere is set to be the “belly of the beast” for Suwon in the second half.
After hearing what Jeon Jin-woo had to say, Kazuki humbled himself by saying, “(My teammates) scored goals at crucial times to help us win.”
When asked if the team atmosphere has improved, he said, “I don’t know what it was like before. But now, everyone has a strong will to look ahead and work hard. The desire to win is getting stronger and stronger.”
As for why he was able to adapt to the water quickly, he said, “My teammates help me well. We have players like Ahn Byung-joon and Han Ho-gang who can speak Japanese, which helps us adapt. Also, our coach, Oh Jang, speaks Japanese as well.”
Kazuki didn’t have a close relationship with Ahn before moving to Korea. “I got to know him through my Kawasaki teammates (before coming to Suwon),” Kazuki said.
Finally, he said, “The team is still in the relegation zone. I’ll do everything I can to stay up. I will help us win the remaining games.”