Tuesday 05 December 2017, 06:40

Urawa ready for second crack at Club World Cup glory

  • The Japanese club are representing Asia at the FIFA Club World Cup

  • Urawa finished third on their previous appearance in 2007

  • Their first game will come against the winners of the tournament’s opening match

With four days to go before they make their debut at the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2017 against the winners of the opening match between Al Jazira and Auckland City, reigning Asian champions Urawa Red Diamonds have arrived in Abu Dhabi from Saitama.

This is the Japanese club’s second Club World Cup, first taking part in 2007, when they beat Etoile du Sahel on penalties in the match for third place. The only survivor of that side is the captain Yuki Abe, who will hope to bring his experience to bear as Urawa search for another good performance.

Should the Japanese prevail in their opening match, they will take on reigning champions Real Madrid in the semi-finals. With compatriots Kashima Antlers having finished runners-up last year, Urawa will not be lacking in motivation.