Urawa Red Diamonds had their title dreams dashed when they shook hands with Kashima Antlers 0-0 in an uneventful match. Immediately after, they lost the trophy to Fukuoka Hornets 1-2 in the Nippon League Cup final.
In this clash, the Red Diamonds will show their indomitable fighting spirit as the players will fight for honor under the watchful eyes of their own fans.
Alexander Schuhus and Tomoaki Okubo will be the backbone of Urawa. Schouhous will need to play well and do his best to stabilize Kobe Victory striker Isao Osako, while Tomoaki Okubo will need to maintain his discipline and block Victory's attacks on the left flank.
Victory's ship round away to Shonan Bima was a huge disappointment, drawing only 1-1 and leaving the lead at the top of the table at just two points.
Their failure to take all three points was largely due to a lack of concentration as the backline was out of position for a while. Therefore, they will not allow a similar mistake to be made in this match.
Although Sasaki Daiki left the game early against Shonan and his form is doubtful, I think Sasaki Daiki's follow up attack will be the key to his team's victory considering the tight defense that Isao Osako and Kaki Muto will be facing.
