AFC Champions League Elite - Preview - MD7: Central Coast Mariners (AUS) v Johor Darul Ta’zim (MAS)

Gosford: Central Coast Mariners will attempt to derail Johor Darul Ta'zim's knockout stage hopes when the two sides meet in the AFC Champions League Elite™ 2024/25 on Tuesday.

While Australia's Mariners are already out of the running for a spot in the Round of 16, Malaysia's Johor Darul Ta'zim are still very much in the race but need victory to stay ahead of their challengers.

A return of just one point from six matches was certainly not within the Mariners expectations, especially after their AFC Cup™ 2023/24 triumph.

The Australian champions, however, found the step up to Asian club football's premier club competition a bit too steep although, in their defence, they fought valiantly in all six matches.

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Johor Darul Ta'zim are very much in a better place although the Malaysian champions have to do something they have yet to achieve this season - win away from home - if they are to add to the eight points they already have.

Johor Darul Ta'zim ended Matchday Six in sixth place but only a point separates them from China PR's Shandong Taishan, who are 10th, and victory is a must if they are to take their challenge into the final League Stage matchday.

Central Coast Mariners (AUS) v Johor Darul Ta’zim (MAS)

Venue: Central Coast Stadium (Gosford)

Kick-off: Tuesday, 19:00 (UTC+11)

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