JOHOR BAHRU: Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) coach Esteban Solari is working on crafting a robust offensive tactical plan for the Asian Champions League (ACL) Group I clash against Japan's Kawasaki Frontale at Todokori Stadium on Tuesday.
Kawasaki have virtually sealed their last-16 spot with 12 points and sit at the top of the group.South Korea's Ulsan Hyundai and JDT each have six points, with the Korean champions currently occupying the second position on goal difference.
Toru Oniki's side boast quality players, including the all-time top goalscorer Yu Kobayashi, who has netted 177 goals in his career. JDT must overcome the unbeaten Kawasaki, currently ranked ninth in the J-league 1, to remain in contention for the second spot in the group to qualify for the next stage.
"We know it's going to be a tough match. Kawasaki are one of the best clubs in Japan. It isn't easy playing away," said Solari."As a team, it doesn't matter if we win or lose because we're working to achieve the same objectives and will try our best.
"The coaching staff and players are always working together to achieve the target. We have proved that JDT can challenge top clubs on an international stage."In the first round, Kawasaki secured a 1-0 victory at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium on Sept 19. Solari stressed the importance of JDT maintaining their momentum and aiming for three points at Kawasaki.
The Argentine coach dismissed concerns about JDT's poor track record against Japanese clubs, referencing last year's humbling 5-0 losses to Kawasaki (group stage) and Urawa Red Diamonds (last 16). "I think JDT took that hard because it was such a big margin, but this game is different. We have hosted Kawasaki here in Johor, so we know we can challenge them.
"We need to lock down a couple of star players, and we know the club's reputation, which is why we need to strengthen our defensive line. "From there, we can build confidence for the midfield and attacking line to execute their tasks better."
