J.League Chairman Mitsuru Murai is proud that Urawa Reds finally shook off their silverware curse to win the 2016 MEIJI YASUDA J1 League Second Stage on Saturday.
Mihailo Petrovic’s men secured the prize when they defeated Jubilo Iwata at the weekend and are seeking to end the regular season top of the overall table.
And Murai released the following statement congratulating them on their triumph and is looking forward to an “unforgettable” J.League Championship.
“Congratulations to Urawa Reds for winning the 2016 MEIJI YASUDA J1 League Second Stage, their second title of the season following the J.League YBC Levain Cup,” the official said.
“In recent years, Urawa Reds have failed to live up to their expectations as a big club through their repeated inability to win key fixtures.
“However, their enthusiastic fans have continued to support them, and in his fifth year manager Petrovic has molded his talented players into a squad that has been able to maintain their rhythm and capture two titles. Their quality on the pitch has raised the level of play in the league.
“This is the club’s second stage title following the 2015 First Stage, but I’m sure that as Mr. Petrovic has alluded to, the team is looking ahead to the final round of the season as well as the MEIJI YASUDA 2016 J.League Championship.
“After taking first place following a 7-1-0 record to start the second half of the season, they relinquished the top spot briefly only to reclaim it after the 12th round.
“Amongst teams who score the opening goal, the Reds have the highest winning percentage in the J1, and they have controlled their matches through a superb balance between attacking and defending.
“I look forward to some unforgettable performances by them in these final matches. As the J.League prepares for an era of significant growth, I hope that Urawa Reds will continue to improve and represent the league not only domestically, but across Asia and the rest of the world.”