Saitama: Urawa Red Diamonds fans have every reason to be excited for the AFC Champions League 2022 final second leg encounter against Al Hilal SFC on Saturday.
Not only did the Japanese side show resilience in the first leg, salvaging a 1-1 draw after trailing at half-time, but former club legend, Yuki Abe will have the honour of escorting the teams with the coveted trophy during the march-in at the Saitama Stadium 2002.
Abe is one of Urawa’s most iconic players, having spent 12 years at the club after his debut in 2007. During his time at Urawa, Abe won three J-League titles, two Emperor’s Cups, and the AFC Champions League in 2007 and was also named J-League MVP in 2006.
The 41-year-old was a key player for the Japanese national team, earning 53 caps and scoring three goals and was widely known for his versatility and work rate on the pitch.
Abe’s presence ahead of the kick-off is a fitting tribute to his contributions to the club and highlight’s Urawa’s rich history and aspirations for success, with the club having won the title in 2007 and 2017 and finishing runners-up in 2019. (AFC Media)
