Vissel Kobe defender Michihiro Yasuda states their coach Nelsinho will be his side’s main advantage against Kashiwa Reysol in the Yamazaki Nabisco Cup quarter-finals.

The Brazilian will lead Vissel against his former side - whom he won the competition with in 2013 during a trophy-laden five-year spell in charge - on September 2 and 6.

And Yasuda fully expects the experience of the 64-year-old, who took charge at Vissel in January, to make its effect felt as the club aim to clinch a historic first piece of silverware.

“Our staff were hoping for Kashiwa Reysol and it felt like we’d get them one way or another. I’m excited for the matchup,” the left-back said after Monday’s draw.

“Our manager Nelsinho has won many championships, so we want to unite under him and play with all of our strength.

“Vissel haven’t won a title yet, and the one that’s closest within reach is the Nabisco Cup. I hope we’ll be smiling at the end.”

Opponents Reysol have meanwhile underperformed in the MEIJI YASUDA J1 League despite advancing to the quarter-finals of the AFC Champions League under new boss Tatsuma Yoshida.

But Kosuke Taketomi is hopeful fans will see a different side to the team when the second half of the season gets underway, and wants to make up with a cup win by the end.

“We still haven’t reached the level of play that our manager envisions,” he admitted.

“Recently we’ve won all sorts of different titles every season, and this year I hope that we play well and win another Nabisco Cup.”

Reysol will be hosting the first leg on September 2 at Kashiwa Stadium.