Shimizu S-Pulse's momentum may have faded in recent weeks, but manager Kenta Hasegawa has plenty to smile about as his side heads into the two-month World Cup shutdown on top of the J. League.
S-Pulse have led the way for most of the campaign, and currently sit three points ahead of second-place Nagoya Grampus with Kashima Antlers one behind with a game in hand. After falling to pieces toward the end of last season, the signs are that Hasegawa's team is far better equipped to handle the pressure this time round.
Last year, S-Pulse put together an astonishing run to go top for the first time in 10 years with only six games remaining. But with a first-ever title within reach, a measly one point from a possible 18 over the stretch not only cost them the championship, but a place in this year's Asian Champions League as well.