Brazilian-born left winger Alex Santos is eager to help Japan beat Saudi Arabia on Wednesday in a match that holds extra significance for the Urawa Reds star.
Having lost 1-0 to the Saudis away in September, Japan is three points adrift of the Gulf side and needs to win by two goals or more in its final qualifier for next year's Asian Cup finals to claim Group A bragging rights.
Both teams have already booked their spots in the finals but Alex wants Japan to wrap up 2006 on a winning note in a match that would see him become the only outfield player to appear in all 19 of the Asian champion's games this year.
"We lost in the last game to Saudi Arabia. We are at home this time and pride is at stake," said Alex. "For me this is a special game. I want us to finish the qualifiers as group winners."