Culture & Entertainment · Singapore Bureau
Kashima demolishes Newcastle 7-1 in Asian Champions League opener
Japanese side Kashima Antlers made a dominant entrance to the Asian Champions League Elite with a commanding 7-1 victory over Australia's Newcastle Jets. In another high-scoring match, Shanghai Port edged past Thailand's Ratchaburi 6-4 in an entertaining encounter.
LSN Singapore ·
Kashima Antlers announced their arrival in the Asian Champions League Elite with a devastating performance against Newcastle Jets on Tuesday, running out 7-1 winners in their opening fixture. The Japanese outfit's attacking prowess was on full display, with striker Cavric completing a hat-trick to lead the goal onslaught against the Australian side.
The emphatic victory underscored Kashima's credentials as contenders in the expanded continental competition, with the team's attacking rhythm overwhelming Newcastle from the outset. The lopsided scoreline reflected the gulf in class between the two sides on the night.
Elsewhere in the evening's fixtures, Shanghai Port endured a more testing encounter with Thailand's Ratchaburi, though ultimately secured a 6-4 triumph despite a late surge from their opponents. The Chinese Super League side's ability to hold firm during a frantic finish proved decisive in a match that provided plenty of entertainment despite its chaotic closing stages.
Both results offered glimpses of the attacking firepower on display in the inaugural Asian Champions League Elite season, with Asian football's elite clubs competing in the expanded format for the first time.