Tue, 30 Nov, -0001
Osaka: The 2008 AFC Champions League winner Gamba Osaka entered into the semi-final of the Japan’s Emperor Cup after a 2-1 derby win over Cerezo Osaka on Sunday.
In the match played at Nagai Stadium, both the sides were held at 1-1 in the regulation time. Gamba’s midfielder Akihiro Lenaga scored the winner in the 112th minutes to set up semi-final dates against Kashima Antlers who edged JEF United in another quarter-final of the day.
Earlier, Japan international and inspirational Gamba captain Yasuhito Endo opened Gamba’s account in the 19th minute but rookie Yoichiro Kakitani brought the match level at 1-1 in the 49th minute.
The Emperor’s Cup is the only chance for the fallen giant Gamba to book a ticket for the ACL 2013 as they were relegated this year after finishing second from bottom in J.League.
The winner of the Emperor’s Cup, which will be played on the New Year Day will get a direct entry to the group stages of the ACL 2013. The other Saturday’s semi-final is between Yokohama and Kashiwa Reysol. The winner will be placed in Group H also featuring Australian champions Central Coast Mariners, Korean side Suwon Bluewings and Guizhou Renhe.