Having opened their campaign with two wins, Kashima will feel it is an omen as the last time they did so, it ended with them lifting the 2018 AFC Champions League™ title.

While it will be a first meeting between the sides since 2010, Kashima lost their only previous encounter 1-0 and will be wary of underestimating a Pohang side who need to get their campaign back on track.

Former Asian champions Pohang are on a woeful run, having lost each of their last four AFC Champions League Elite games, with each of these losses being by multiple goals.

 

They have been found wanting on both ends of the pitch, having scored just once and conceded five in their opening two matches and know that another defeat could mean a premature end to their campaign.

Venue: Kashima Soccer Stadium (Kashima)

Kick-off: Wednesday, 19:00 (UTC+9)