PETALING JAYA: Scoring the first goal against Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) will be crucial for Japanese Kawasaki Frontale – and the Japanese club know it only too well as they prepare for their opening Group I match of the AFC Champions League (ACL) today.
The last time the two sides faced each other in the tournament, the Azzurro-Neo (Blue Black) thrashed JDT 5-0 at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri on April 24 last year.
Then, the Japanese side scored in the 14th minute before going on to rout the Malaysian champions.
Coach Toru Oniki knows they can do it again if they get another early goal and build on it as they meet at the same stadium again.
This time, he has ample attacking ammunition in French striker Bafetimbi Gomis, and Brazilian strikers Marcinho and Leandro Damiao.
Oniki, though, realises that JDT this year will present a different challenge compared to last year.
“We know how JDT are now. It will be a difficult game and we will do our best. JDT are a strong team and have individuals with good skills,” he said.
“Their number nine (Bergson Da Silva) and 20 (Juan Muniz) are dangerous. Their combination plays are good and we cannot give them any space.
“We must get the first goal in order to get a good game.
“From our experience last year, we must score first. The environment in this stadium is different. We know winning the first game would give us a good momentum.”
Meanwhile, Kawasaki captain Kento Tachibanada is looking forward to face his compatriot Takahiro Kunimoto, JDT’s key playmaker.
“Our target is to be the champion, so the first game is important. We will play a good game and ensure we get the start we want,” said the 25-year-old.
“I know him (Kunimoto). He is experienced but I will not allow him to roam free. I will make sure he doesn’t have a good game.”
