AFC Champions League Elite - We showed our character, says Kyoto’s Elias

Kameoka: Rafael Elias said Kyoto Sanga FC showed their character in the second half as they came from two goals down to defeat Newcastle Jets FC 5-2 in their AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27 tie on Tuesday.

Patrick Wood scored twice from the penalty spot in the first half, but Marco Tulio’s brace and goals from Hisashi Appiah Tawiah, Alex Negueba and Rafael Elias earned Kyoto their second win, with Newcastle slumping to a third consecutive defeat.

#ACLElite | Kyoto Sanga F.C. (JPN) 5-2 Newcastle Jets FC (AUS)

“We made mistakes in the first half that led to two penalties, but we showed what we’re capable of after the break,” said Elias.

Kyoto head coach Ranko Popovic said adjustments were required after a difficult first half.

“In the first half, we became stretched as a team. We made adjustments in the second half and were able to attack more simply. I’m happy that we won by scoring five goals.”

Newcastle head coach Mark Milligan felt his side had started well but was disappointed by the way they conceded.

“It was a game of two halves. We started very well and had some good moments in the first half. This is the beginning of the journey for this team, and we were a little naive in the way we conceded the goals,” said Milligan.

“I’m happy with the team because, from the first minute, our intention was to try to win against a very good side. It just wasn’t our night.”

We showed our character, says Kyoto’s Elias

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