Japan's J-League is set for a grandstand finish this weekend with the top three clubs all capable of snatching the title as they head into the last round separated by just two points. Surprise package Kashiwa Reysol, who lead by a point, can become champions in their very first season after being promoted, while second-placed Nagoya Grampus would seal back-to-back titles if results go their way.
Gamba Osaka, one point further back in third, need a win to have any chance of leap-frogging their rivals into first place and claiming, against all odds, their first J-League crown since 2005. One of Japan's tightest races since it ditched the two-stage championship that year is given added spice by the fact that all three title contenders are playing away from home.
Kashiwa are at Urawa Red Diamonds' Saitama Stadium, Nagoya travel to Albirex Niigata's Big Swan venue - where they have never won - and Osaka are hosted by mid-table Shimizu S-Pulse. Kashiwa striker Hideaki Kitajima said his team would not be cowed by Urawa's fiery supporters as they go in search of their second successive title, after also winning the second-tier J2 last season. Fourth-from-bottom Urawa's relegation fears appear over with Ventforet Kofu needing to win by 14 goals to draw level on both points and goal difference.
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