1996 J.League

The 1996 J.League season was the fourth season since the establishment of the J.League Division 1.

Also, until 2004 (with the exception of 1996 season), the J1 season was divided into two.

The 1996 J.League season saw Verdy Kawasaki finish 7th place overall, the lowest standing in the league's existence at that point, and would fall further in the 1997 season, finishing 16th and 12th, in the 1st stage and 2nd stage, respectively, and 15th overall out of 17 teams.

Finally, in 1996 the team got their hands on the trophy and also gained revenge on Verdy, beating them 5–4 on penalties in the final.

After becoming the champions of 1995 Japan Football League as Fukuoka Blux, and being admitted to the J. League since 1996 season, Avispa Fukuoka has the longest history as a J. League club being uncrowned in any nationwide competitions such as J. League Division 1, Division 2, J. League Cup, or Emperor's Cup.

In the two seasons in Japan, Edílson finished both as runner-up in Golden Boot ranking, scoring 21 goals in 1996, and 23 in 1997.

In 1996 season, Flügels finished at the 3rd place and he was also selected Best Eleven award.

After still appearing with success for J. League's Kashima Antlers, winning both the league and MVP titles in 1996, Jorginho returned to Brazil and played until 39, with São Paulo FC, CR Vasco da Gama and Fluminense Football Club.

In 1990s, the club won the champions in 1996, 1998 J1 League, 1997 J.League Cup and 1997 Emperor's Cup.