“It’s the final, and we know it’ll be a tough game. We’re fully aware of the challenge and committed to performing at our highest level to get the result we want,” said Al Ahli tactician Matthias Jaissle.

“From dreaming of playing from the first match to reaching the final at home in front of our fans, it’s a special journey."

“I’m incredibly proud to coach this team and represent these fans. They’ve stood by us through tough times, and that’s a big reason we’re in this final.

"Tomorrow’s atmosphere will be electric. Our supporters can give us that extra push and we’ll give everything to deliver the result they deserve.”

Jaissle, however, admitted that Al Ahli - who defeated Buriram United of Thailand and Saudi Pro League rivals Al Hilal SFC in the quarter-finals and semi-finals respectively, will go into the decider with full respect for their opponents.  

“Let’s see if they (Frontale) have any surprises. We know Kawasaki Frontale’s strengths. They deserve to be here. The best teams reach the final and we hope we can surprise them too.

“We respect Kawasaki’s quality, offensively and defensively. It’s not just about one player – every one of them can make a difference. That’s the level we’re up against and we’re ready.”

Frontale will aim to use the momentum of their 3-2 wins against Qatar’s Al Sadd SC and Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr Club in the quarter-finals and semi-finals to see off the challenge of Al Ahli, with head coach Shigetoshi Hasebe fully expecting his players to rise to the occasion.

“It's a big time now to become champions. Tomorrow the target is clear – to win the title,” said Hasebe. “We’ll keep pushing to win because that brings success not just for the team but for the people of Kawasaki.”

The J1 League outfit have won admirers with their fearless approach but Hasebe knows they’ll need to do even more against a well-drilled Al Ahli side.

“The atmosphere will be intense, but that’s perfect for us. Even if their fans are loud, we have our supporters too and that will help. This is an away game in every sense. What matters is being ready.

“Al Ahli don’t seem to have any real weaknesses. They’re a complete team, and we respect that but opportunities like this don’t come often. Even before we played Al Sadd, I believed we would reach the final. Now it’s time to finish the job.”

Venue: King Abdullah Sports City Stadium (Jeddah)

Kick-off: Saturday, 19:30 (UTC+3)