Machida Zelvia Coach Go Kuroda Unfazed by Al Ahli’s Star Players

Machida are set to make their inaugural appearance in the continental tournament and have defied the odds to secure a showdown with a team that boasts UEFA Champions League winners like Riyad Mahrez and Edouard Mendy, alongside England striker Ivan Toney.

“It doesn’t matter who stands in our way; we are geared up to showcase the Machida Zelvia brand of football, and we intend to play with no regrets,” Kuroda stated.

“Al Ahli possess a wealth of experience, along with many skilled players, so we are fully aware of their capabilities.

“Nonetheless, we will stick to our philosophy and continue to exhibit that. Our goal is to demonstrate what we believe in on this grand stage.”

Having played in Japan’s second division as recently as 2023, Machida enters the final with an impressive defensive record, remaining unbeaten in terms of goals conceded in their last four matches within the competition.

The J-League club has already knocked out a high-spending Saudi Pro League team, claiming victory over Al-Ittihad in the quarter-finals, followed by a narrow 1-0 win against Shabab Al-Ahli of the UAE in the semi-finals.

While Al Ahli are tipped as the favourites going into the clash at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, their coach Matthias Jaissle recognises the difficulty in penetrating the Japanese club’s solid defence.

“Machida are a highly disciplined side, boasting an exceptional work ethic,” Jaissle commented, hoping to become the first coach to secure back-to-back titles in the Asian Champions League era.

“Their off-the-ball efforts are commendable, with every player giving their all on the pitch.

“Scoring against them is no simple task; they have demonstrated this throughout the knockout stages, conceding very few throughout the tournament and only seven goals across 12 matches (in total). This reflects their strong structure.”

“It will certainly be a challenging match, but that’s a given, otherwise they wouldn’t have reached the final.”

Al Ahli may have to contend with the absence of Galeno, following reports of an injury sustained in training earlier in the week. However, Jaissle believes the majority of his squad will be fit and available for selection.

“Currently, it appears that most of the players are on board, mentally and physically prepared,” the German coach noted. “This is an extraordinary match, and everyone is keen to be a part of it.”

“In the lead-up to this game, everyone is striving to be in optimal physical and mental condition. We expect nothing less from our players, ensuring that everyone is ready.”