Sanfrecce Hiroshima head coach Bartosch Gaul believes his team must remain tactically disciplined and fully focused ahead of their crucial second-leg clash against Johor Darul Ta’zim in the Round of 16 of the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26 (East Zone).
Speaking during the pre-match press conference, Gaul emphasised the importance of controlling possession and managing key moments carefully as Hiroshima aim to secure progression to the quarter-finals.
Gaul acknowledged that matches at this level demand a high level of tactical awareness, particularly when dealing with transitions after losing possession.
“We know the strong quality in this competition, so we must be careful with how we lose the ball and how we manage those situations,” he explained.
“We want to play our football, but we must also make sure we control the important moments in the match.”
The German tactician stressed that attention to detail will be crucial against a side with the attacking quality of Johor Darul Ta’zim.
Gaul also hinted that some adjustments to the lineup could be made, although he insisted the team is physically ready for the demanding encounter.
“We cannot say the team is tired because we have had enough recovery time,” he said.
“But it is important to find the right balance between rotation and maintaining the team’s confidence.”
According to the Hiroshima coach, squad depth will allow the team to maintain competitiveness while giving opportunities to different players.
“Everyone in the team is important. Over the coming weeks and months, every player will have their chance.”
“We may change some players, but not everything. Tomorrow you will see.”
With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, Gaul highlighted the importance of staying focused solely on the upcoming match.
“The highest motivation is always the next match,” he said.
“We want to win the next match and give everything on the pitch. Every second of the game matters.”
“If we can progress to the next round, it will be a great reward for the players.”
Gaul also stressed that Sanfrecce Hiroshima are still evolving as a team, with improvement in both attacking and defensive phases remaining a priority.
“Our job is always to develop and take the next step,” he explained.
“Most of our focus is on improving ourselves — in attack and defence — because we believe we have a strong team with great individual quality.”
Credit Photo : AFC
