VfB’s Japan Tour is coming to an end. Before the journey home on Friday, Sebastian Hoeneß’s side will have another runout on Thursday evening at 18:30 local time (11:30 German time, live on VfB TV to subscribers). Last season’s Bundesliga runners-up visit Sanfrecce Hiroshima, currently fifth in the J1 League, at the Peace Wing Stadium, where over 20,000 spectators are expected.
On the one hand it’s a sporting test. “We’re looking forward to the game,” said VfB head coach Hoeneß. “We have great respect for the opposition, who are doing well in the league. We experienced last Sunday against Sanga Kyoto how good Japanese teams are, how tactically well set up they are, We also have great respect for their coach, who’s very well known in Germany and had a big impact.” He was referring to former Bundesliga coach Michael Skibbe, who now works at Hiroshima.
On the team’s objectives, midfielder Atakan Karazor said: “We want to pick up from where we left off in the second half against Kyoto. We’ve been very warmly received here in Japan and want to end the trip on a high and go home with a good feeling.” And Hoeneß added: “Along with the technical and tactical elements that we’re working on, we also want to lay the physical foundations.”
Message of peace
While it will be a competitive affair on the pitch, the theme of peace is also a focus of this match. “We’re proud to be able to take part in this game, where we can carry the message of peace to the outside world,” said Hoeneß. Peace plays a particularly prominent role in Hiroshima due to the tragic history of the city following the American atomic bombing on 6 August 1945. “With this match, we want to show how football can promote understanding between nations,” commented Skibbe.