AFC Champions League Elite - Popovic: Victory is for the city of Kyoto

Kameoka: Ranko Popovic dedicated Kyoto Sanga FC’s first continental victory to those working behind the scenes after his side edged Ratchaburi FC 1-0 in the AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27™ on Tuesday.

Substitute Temma Matsuda struck late to secure Kyoto’s first points following their opening match defeat to Daejeon Hana Citizen FC, with Popovic pleased with the contribution of players who have had limited match time.

#ACLElite | Kyoto Sanga F.C. (JPN) 1-0 Ratchaburi FC (THA)

“It’s very nice to finish the game with a victory. It means a lot, and I think we should have scored earlier,” said Popovic.

“We fielded players who haven’t played many matches and it’s not easy to adapt to the pace of the competition. But our players did a good job today."

“This is Kyoto Sanga’s first continental victory and I want to dedicate this to our club, supporters and - especially - everyone who works hard behind the scenes at the club. This is a gift for the city of Kyoto.”

Ratchaburi head coach Worrawoot Srimaka, meanwhile, felt his players deserved a reward for their efforts as the Thailand side suffered a second successive defeat.

“The end result was very harsh on us. I felt we deserved to come away with something from this game, whether it was one or all three points,” said Worrawoot.

“I thought we should have been awarded a penalty in stoppage time. If VAR hadn’t intervened, it would have been a different scenario now.

“I have to thank the players. We prepared thoroughly and paid close attention to the details. We only made a few mistakes, but overall it was a good performance.”

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