AFC U17 Asian Cup
Having featured in every match so far, Takaoka has scored once and made two assists and ahead of the much-anticipated final, the 16-year-old is determined to do even more to ensure his team head to the FIFA U17 World Cup Indonesia 2023 as continental champions.
“I have played in all five matches, but only have one goal to my name. Tomorrow, I’d like to get a goal for myself,” said Takaoka.
“Our team’s aim has always been to finish as champions, and we are at the final stage now. We are all highly motivated and are not allowing ourselves to feel any pressure.”
Takaoka attributed the relaxed and calm atmosphere in the dressing room to the close bond that the players share with their head coach Yoshiro Moriyama, and said that it played a significant role in the team’s ability to keep their performance up.
“There is a very good bond between the players and the coaching staff and that’s been integral to our performance in the last five games.
“In fact, I think a big reason behind us reaching the final is our close relationship and our ability to understand one another and work as a team,” said the number 11.
For the Japanese striker, a primary advantage the Koreans have is that of physical build but Takaoka is confident that what he lacks in height, he makes up through his agility—something he finds in common with this idol Lionel Messi.
“The Koreans are built bigger compared to us, but our fighting spirit is nothing less. Personally, I think my strength and weakness is my height, just like Messi. So I get a lot of inspiration from him.
“I am also a big fan of Daizen Maeda from our own national team and hope to be able to follow in his footsteps in the future,” he added.
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