Leo Ceara scored twice to lead the Kashima Antlers to a 2-1 triumph over Yokohama F Marinos at Mercari Stadium. Kashima claimed its first title since 2016.

Newcastle Jets suffered a humiliating 7-1 defeat against Japanese club Kashima Antlers in their return to the AFC Champions League Elite, marking a disastrous start to their continental campaign. The Jets, who qualified for the competition for the first time since 2009 after winning the A-League premiership last season, were comprehensively outplayed from the opening minutes. Kashima Antlers, already seven games into their J1 League season, dominated the match from the outset, scoring three goals within the first 20 minutes. By halftime, the score was 5-0, with Aleksandar Cavric netting a first-half hat-trick for Kashima. The Jets' defensive vulnerabilities were exposed early, with goalkeeper James Delianov making a critical error in the 19th minute that led to a goal. Cavric's hat-trick was completed after a VAR review overturned an initial offside call. Kashima continued their dominance in the second half, adding two more goals through Homare Tokuda and substitute Kyosuke Tagawa. Newcastle's only consolation came in the 79th minute when substitute Pat Wood scored from a set-up by Joe Lolley. The loss highlights the Jets' lack of competitive preparation, having been eliminated from the Australia Cup in the round of 32, leaving them without match fitness ahead of their A-League season. Coach Mark Milligan faces significant challenges in addressing the team's defensive issues and rebuilding the squad following the departure of key players like Clayton Taylor, Lachlan Bayliss, Eli Adams, and Lachlan Rose. The defeat underscores the gap between the Jets and top Asian clubs, with Kashima Antlers demonstrating their strength as reigning J1 League champions. This result will likely prompt a thorough review of Newcastle's squad and tactics ahead of their upcoming A-League fixtures.

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