The official training session started at 6 PM. It was muggy when the team arrived, but the heat eased as the sun set. The stadium, commonly known as Larkin Stadium, is also the place where Japan defeated Iran with a golden goal in 1997, qualifying for the World Cup for the first time. For this reason, the stadium also had a museum.
The stadium was filled with blue and red, the team colors of Johor.
Commemorative goods for the match were also on sale.
In addition to this stadium, the training ground used yesterday, and the turf of Johor's clubhouse are managed by a Japanese person.
The players arrived at the stadium while the sun was still strong.
They warmed up off the pitch, preparing for the start of official training.
The open training session included ball passing and running passes to get a feel for the pitch.
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After official training, we conducted interviews with the media.
Antlers' official press conference was held at their accommodation at 12 PM. Coach Oiwa and Anzai attended the conference.
Coach Go Oiwa:
"We won against Johor in the first group stage match. To advance from the group stage away from home, we want to play well, get three points, and return to Japan. It will be a tough match, but we want to prepare thoroughly to play for three points."
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Koki Anzai:
"We secured a good win in the first match. I want to quickly adapt to the heat and humidity. It will be a difficult match, but I'll do my best to ensure we win and return home."
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Representing Johor Darul Ta'zim were coach Benjamin Mora and captain Hariss Harun.
Coach Benjamin Mora:
"Mathematically, qualification is possible, though it won't be easy. First, we'll focus on tomorrow's match and aim to show excellent attitude and our fighting spirit on the pitch. Keeping in mind that it is the month of fasting, we want to do our best against Antlers, a very strong team and last year's ACL champions."
Hariss Harun:
"Although we lost to Antlers in the first ACL match, we were able to show a good performance. Tomorrow, we have the advantage of playing at home, so we want to prepare well physically and mentally to achieve a great result."