Kawasaki Frontale is set to clash with Al-Ahli in the Asian final, with the match scheduled to take place in Jeddah. The stakes are plenty high! Al-Ahli, worth about $200 million, is loaded with star players including UEFA Champions League winners Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino. Shigetoshi Hasebe, the head coach of Kawasaki, is proud of his team’s fighting spirit. Above all, he wishes to see the match won on the pitch and not dictated by financial considerations.
The final will take place at a relatively new stadium in the Qatari capital, where Al-Ahli will have at least an entire end provided for their own supporters. Hasebe is optimistic that Kawasaki will be in line to receive the applause of a large swath of the sold-out crowd. This anticipation follows Kawasaki’s impressive journey to the final, which included a surprise 3-2 victory over Al-Nassr and an extra-time win against Qatar’s Al-Sadd.
Fans Rally Behind Kawasaki
Kawasaki’s advocates have shown immense perseverance. Some 300 fans had to endure a punishing 16-hour journey to reach Jeddah for the semi-finals. The deep commitment doesn’t seem to stop there, with a record number of fans set to attend the final.
Hasebe was forthright about the need for such fan support, admitted that they can’t take for granted the support from Japanese fans. He stated, “I don’t think all the Saudi people are supporting Al-Ahli. And we can’t forget the people from Japan who have come as well. They will be supporting us as well. That’s going to be very helpful.”
And the combination of loyal fans from Al-Ahli, Al-Hilal, and Al-Nassr will help ensure the electric atmosphere in the stadium. Hasebe is confident that Kawasaki do not let their prospect down and believes that their fans should support them to return in the important game.
Team Prepared for Challenge
Kawasaki comes into this final with plenty of pedigree, having won four J-League titles in their history. Hasebe reassured that his squad is well prepared ahead of the match. “We don’t have any big injuries, everyone is healthy and ready to play tomorrow,” he said.
So regardless of Al-Ahli’s financial power and superstar roster, Hasebe is focused on what matters on the pitch. He acknowledged the role that budgets play in football, but made clear that success first and foremost comes down to what takes place on the pitch. “The budget is a very important factor, but the players are not playing with their wallets or their credit cards,” he added.
As Kawasaki prepares for this pivotal encounter, Hasebe’s insights reflect a blend of respect for Al-Ahli’s capabilities while maintaining confidence in his squad’s potential to achieve victory.
Looking Ahead
Our two mighty teams, poised for battle. The Asian Final is set to be an exciting showcase of football skills and sportsmanship! Kawasaki’s journey to this point showcases their resilience and determination, while Al-Ahli’s formidable roster presents a significant challenge.
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