Players from Kashima Antlers and Urawa Reds spoke to the media on Friday in a press conference promoting the upcoming FUJI XEROX SUPER CUP 2017.

February 18’s encounter at Nissan Stadium in Yokohama will featured J.League champions Antlers against last seasons’ runners-up Reds.

“Urawa Reds finished first in the regular season standings last year so we have to respect them,” Antlers defender Yukitoshi Ito said. 

“They’re difficult opponents with one of the best squads in Japan. But we won both the league and the Emperor’s Cup, so we have to win this cup too and that will come down to our ability to play as a unit.”

“(Antlers) caused a lot of disappointment for us (in the J.League Championship) so this is a chance for us to get our revenge,” added Reds defender Wataru Endo. 

“Their players are good at responding to any situation, and they can earn results no matter who’s playing. The fitness of our new players will be very important.”

“These two clubs have a deep connection and this will be a do-or-die fight,” said J.League Chairman Mitsuru Murai.

“It’s an important match for both teams as they prepare to contest the AFC Champions League.”