On Monday, September 14th, the pre-match press conference was held at Kashima Soccer Stadium, one day before the AFC Champions League Elite MD1 match against Newcastle Jets. Kashima Antlers head coach Tatsuru Oniki and player Tomoki Hayakawa attended and shared their thoughts on the upcoming match, as detailed below.
Comment from Head Coach Tatsuru Oniki
I have strong feelings about the ACL stage, and I think it's a very exciting tournament. Also, the fact that winning this ACL title leads to the next battle makes me want to experience that stage with the players, the club, and the fans and supporters. As I've served as head coach for a long time, these feelings have grown stronger, and I want to achieve them here at Kashima Antlers.
Comment from Player Tomoki Hayakawa
This will be the first international tournament for the team since I joined Kashima Antlers. I've had many good experiences playing for the Japan national team, so I believe there's significant value in communicating what I've felt and experienced to the team, and in showcasing what I've cultivated so far in such a tournament.
The match between Kashima Antlers and Newcastle Jets will kick off on Tuesday, September 15th, at 7:00 PM.
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