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| Japan international Naohiro Takahara (blue) in action during the FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers against Thailand in February (AFP) |
TOKYO: Asian club champions Urawa Red Diamonds converted the only chance to beat Kawasaki Frontale 1-0 on Saturday, stretching the lead over Nagoya Grampus to three points in the J-League.
The sole goal came in the 62nd minute when former Frankfurt striker Naohiro Takahara was pulled down in the area, allowing Brazilian forward Edmilson to cash in on the penalty.
"At half time, I told my players that the team which takes a small chance will win. When Takahara gained a penalty chance, Edmilson duly scored. That was the key to today's game," said Urawa's German coach Gert Engels.
Urawa have now eight wins, two draws and two defeats for 26 points, three points above Nagoya, who were held to a goalless draw by Vissel Kobe.
They were followed by Kawasaki and FC Tokyo with 20 points, Kashiwa Reysol with 19 points and defending champions Kashima Antlers with 18 points, who were to play Shimizu S-Pulse on Sunday.
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