On Saturday 10 November, Kashima Antlers faced Persepolis (Iran) in the second leg of the AFC Champions League (ACL) 2018 final. After drawing 0-0 in the match held in Teheran, Kashima won their first ever ACL title with an aggregate score of 2-0.

In a match where it was officially announced that the attendance exceeded 100,000 people, the home side showed great intensity to start the match. Persepolis, who lost the first leg 0-2, utilised quick long-balls to initiate their attacks. Led by their captain SHOJI Gen, Kashima responded by showing great composure in defence, as the team managed to end the first half scoreless.

Kashima kept their composure in the second half as they managed their risks and utilised their time effectively to induce impatient plays from Persepolis. With the Kashima players showcasing fatigues, Persepolis took control of the match towards the closing minutes. However, led by the superb saves made by their goalkeeper KWOUN Sun-Tae, the Japanese club managed to end the match scoreless. As a result, Kashima won the final with an aggregate score of 2-0 to earn the club’s first ever ACL title (under the host of the AFC).

SUZUKI Yuma, who played in all 14 matches and scored two goals, was named as the tournament MVP.

This win marked the third Japanese club to earn the title, following Urawa Red Diamonds (2007 & 2017) and Gamba Osaka (2008). Kashima Antlers will now enter next month’s FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2018 as the Asian representative.

Coach and Players' Comments

OIWA Go, Coach (Kashima Antlers)
It was a very difficult away match, but the players did well to fight through. Although we couldn’t win the match, we are so glad that we managed to take down the title. This title was a long-awaited title for the club, the players, and the supporters. This win shall spread the Antlers name throughout the Asian region. We feel that this title is more valuable than our final appearance at the Club World Cup two years ago, where we played against Real Madrid. I am very happy that we managed to win the title with the veterans like OGASAWARA and SOGAHATA.

GK #1 KWOUN Sun-Tae (Kashima Antlers)
It’s very difficult to describe this feeling, but I am realising that this is my third time. I will continue to work hard to earn my fourth and fifth title. When I joined the team, I told everyone that I came to win, so I am happy that I am able to stay true to my words. Azadi Stadium is called an “Away Hell,” but we are glad we managed to keep a clean sheet at such stadium. We will stay focused in our league matches so that we can once again enter the ACL next year, and we must win the Emperor’s Cup as well.

DF #22 NISHI Daigo (Kashima Antlers)
I am very glad. It’s a win earned with the help of everyone. (The away atmosphere) Was astonishing. During halftime, my ears were still buzzing. I’d like to thank all of our supporters. This wouldn’t have been made possible without your support, so thank you very much.

MF #4 Leo SILVA (Kashima Antlers)
I am very happy. This was a title we have never won before, so we were feeling the pressure, but I am glad we managed to achieve this feat. We will continue to strive to earn titles in the future tournaments. This title is something our players, staffs and the supporters can be proud of.

FW #9 SUZUKI Yuma (Kashima Antlers)
This was made possible by a collective team effort, rather than an individual effort. Our strong will to win the title has led us to this result. I am very happy to share this moment with the legends like Ogasawara and Sogahata. We will fight through the Emperor’s Cup before entering the Club World Cup.

Tournament Period: 30 January - 10 November 2018

Final 1st Leg
Sat. 3 November Match Venue: Kashima Soccer Stadium
Kashima Antlers (Japan) 2-0 Persepolis (Iran)

Final 2nd Leg
Sat. 10 November Match Venue: Azadi Stadium
Persepolis (Iran) 0-0 Kashima Antlers (Japan)

Tournament Information