Giant Killing

#01

Tatsumi returns to ETU from managing FC Eastham to the 4th round of the FA Cup, his return only to be greeted by jeers of the disillusioned ETU supporters, who think of Tatsumi as a traitor for abandoning ETU for an overseas club. Meanwhile on the practice pitch, Tatsumi shocks the squad by announcing that he’ll hold a scrimmage between a younger inexperienced ETU side against the seasoned ETU starters to see who will make up the starting eleven of his ETU side…

#02

The awaited scrimmage between the ETU starting line-up and the reserves begin. Tensions esclate within ETU as Tatsumi’s sharp analysis of the current ETU squad allows him to lead the reserves to an unexpected victory over the starting lineup. Further surprises await ETU as Tatsumi announces that “Mr. ETU” Murakoshi, the iconic captain, is to be stripped of his captaincy…

#03

ETU embark on their pre-season training camp at Dream Island with a disunited team following the results of the scrimmage match. Escalating tensions between the younger players and the first team members create chaos in the training pitch, but their clamors are soon silenced by the return of Gino, ETU’s mysterious Number 10…

#04

ETU put the fruits of their pre-season training camp to the test by taking on reigning champions Tokyo Victory in a pre-season friendly…

#05

ETU put the fruits of their pre-season training camp to the test by taking on reigning champions Tokyo Victory in a pre-season friendly…

#06

Tatsumi is forced to go to a press conference attended by all the managers and player representatives participating in the league, where he makes acquaintances with a man whose eccentric nature rivals that of his own. Meanwhile, ETU, in high spirits after their inspired draw in the friendly against previous season champions Tokyo Victory, prepare for Matchday 1 of the new J. League season…

#07

Following their disastrous start of the season, ETU continues down a rocky road of defeat as the team crashes to a poor start. Frustrations grow larger by day in the locker room, while Tatsumi proposes an unconventional strategy in getting the team into winning ways…

#08

Yet another defeat at the hands of newly relegated side FC Sapporo sees both supporters and the boardroom infuriated with Tatsumi’s performance on the pitch, as Goto desperately tries to convince both parties that Tatsumi is the only many fit for the job…

#09

Since Tatsumi became manager, ETU has lost 4 matches in a row. The Skulls fan group can’t conceal their anger any longer. At the peak of their anger, they stop the players’ bus and demand an apology from Tatsumi. Tatsumi stops Murakoshi from appeasing the crowd and tries to go out himself. Does he have a secret strategy against Nagoya Grand Palace?!

#10

The fans are demanding that Tatsumi is canned. The opponent they face during their last stand is Nagoya Grand Palace, led by ETU’s former manager Fuwa. In a stark contrast to ETU, Fuwa has been winning cup and league matches. He is an absolutely rational coach who used expensive foreign players to raise the power of the entire team. In the beginning, the Brazilian trio goes on a fierce offensive, but Tatsumi’s plans are already in motion…

#11

ETU vs Nagoya Grand Palace. In the first half, ETU is faced with a relentless assault, but thanks to Tsubaki’s repeated smooth plays, the danger of losing a point is always averted. Fuwa slowly starts to realize that Tatsumi’s plan has been set in motion. However, ETU does not launch a full assault. While Matsubara can’t hide his worries about the defense-only match, Tatsumi is grinning smugly. And the thing Tsubaki sees when he gets on the field is…!

#12

Nagoya can't break ETU's defense line, so they put Carlos up front and attack with their strongest formation. This is exactly what Tatsumi has been waiting for. ETU is desperate to withstand the Brazilian onslaught. They block their shot and begin their own counterattack. That was Tatsumi's plan all along. The ball goes to Gino and ETU's attack finally begins. Who will score?!

#13

ETU control the Brazilian trio and successfully take the lead. 15 minutes left and Nagoya comes attacking back. But, ETU's composure as a team allows them to withstand the onslaught.

#14

Delighted over their first win, Goto takes ETA out to the shopping district and thinks about reviving the old cheering squad. But, the old fans don't seem 100% on board when asked. Though he tries hard, it is not successful and night sets in.

#15

ETU faces off against FC Sapporo for the prelims in the Japan Cup.

#16

Natsuki returns to practice with ETU. He was their top goal scorer the previous season.

#17

The team loses a critical starter for a week with a sprained ankle.

#18

ETU is coming off its fourth match in a row. No one is sure if the team is in top shape or not when the match against Albireos Niigata begins. The built-up pressure and excitement leads Akasaki to get a yellow card while defending. At halftime, Akasaki says something that sparks a giant argument. The coach and others try to break it up in haste when they come to a quick conclusion.

#19

The battle against the Osaka Gunners is about to begin. They employee a highly aggressive offensive formation utilizing four forwards. This is a point of pride for all of Osaka.

#20

ETU begins their match against the Osaka Gunners. They are holding their ground man-to-man for now, but...

#21

ETU has their backs to the wall due to the Osaka Gunners' vicious attacks. They stiffen their defense and brace for a comeback.

#22

Sugie and Kuroda, both vital defensemen for ETU, give up two goals in the first half. How will they recover?

#23

Just before the match against Osaka, a question is posed to Natsuki... Does the ball belong to your team? Or you?

#24

ETU continues their run. Will they prevail? Only time will tell.

#25

ETU has tied the game with a goal off a free kick earned by Tsubaki's legs and stamina. While Matsubara is excited and presses for the next strategy, Tatsumi responds with a disappointing "My plan was to keep Osaka at one point and to win 2-1. I dunno about the 3rd goal." Matsubara is shocked, but Tatsumi continues "I am counting on him changing the fact that ETU lacks the last bit of strength in the end."

#26

Akasaki appears in a match as an Olympic team member. Tatsumi removes Akasaki from the next game's starting lineup so he can regain his strength. Meanwhile, Gino complains about the condition of his foot and Tatsumi pulls him from the starting lineup as well. With the starting lineup for the next match against Kawasaki settled and two of the primary players sitting out, Tatsumi has a thought: To organize a certain event with the local people, the ETU staff, and all the players!?