#ACL - Matchday Six: What They Said

Kuala Lumpur: The AFC Champions League™ 2023/24 Group Stage came to an end this week after a fortnight of dramatic and exciting ties across Asia deciding the final 16 teams for the knockout stage.

Historic moments, national pride, disappointments, and fond farewells all feature as the-AFC.com talks to those involved in the latest edition of the Continent's most prestigious competition.

“We had great support in the game, our fans came in huge numbers, a great motivation for the players and we knew that we couldn’t let them down.”

Ventforet Kofu head coach Yoshiyuki Shinoda hailed his team’s 12th man as the tournament debutants became the first second-division side to advance to the AFC Champions League knockout stage.

"The players felt responsible for defending Al Ain's name, which represents the country in Asia, and they knew very well what was required of them in today's match, so they were able to achieve their goal and come back with victory."

Head coach Hernan Crespo applauded his Al Ain players for their unwavering focus in their final AFC Champions League™ 2023/24 Group A match against Ahal FC.

#ACL - Group A | Ahal FC (TKM) 1-2 Al Ain FC (UAE)

“Just immensely proud to finish the way we did in this last game, the way the players performed was just everything we wanted as a football club. This is a special place and wonderful football club, just happy that we can share this last memory together.”

Kevin Muscat did not try to hide his emotions after Yokohama F. Marinos defeated Shandong Taishan 3-0 to advance to the knockout stage in the Australian’s last game as the side’s head coach.

"We faced the best team in Asia. We tried to play in the best possible way, and we were equal to them. My players gave a wonderful performance, and we had a lot to offer.”

Nassaji Mazandaran head coach Mehdi Rahmati said the experience of playing against Al Hilal SFC can only help his players' development after their 2-1 defeat in Riyadh.

"We've successfully qualified for the next round, and I'm delighted with that. Since October, we've been struggling with a packed schedule on the domestic front, but the players performed admirably today."

Head coach Hong Myung-bo believes Ulsan Hyundai are capable of much more after reversing a two-goal deficit to hold Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale 2-2 to secure their spot in the Round of 16.

"We feel frustrated because we did not qualify for the second round. We feel hurt because we did not qualify, but now we will think about the future. Now we will think about the Iraqi League and compete for the title. Our confidence and ambition are high."

Air Force Club head coach Ayoub Odisho sets focus on the future after the Iraqi side bid farewell to the AFC Champions League™ 2023/24 despite defeating AGMK FC of Uzbekistan 3-2 on Matchday Six.

“We did not have a very good game as we conceded an early goal. I don’t understand how we fell behind, but this is football. Although we didn’t create that many chances and were not aggressive enough.”

Head coach Dan Petrescu admits there is much improvement needed if there is going to be cheer for Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors in the knockout stage after they had to work for their 3-2 win over Group F winners Bangkok United.

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#ACL - Matchday Six: What They Said

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