Aiwa led from the front as Kashima utilised their game plan to perfection to blunt Persepolis, holding the Islamic Republic of Iran side to a 0-0 draw to win their first AFC Champions League title 2-0 on aggregate.

Fittingly, the title the Japanese club craved the most turned out to be the 20th major honour in their history and Oiwa paid tribute to his players.

"It was a very tough game but my players were very mobile, battled well and I am delighted with the result. I lost my voice but it is worth it," said Oiwa.

The fact that his players and the team's fans gave it their all meant Persepolis had won despite Kashima Antlers holding them to a 0-0 draw to seal their first AFC Champions League title with a 2-0 win on aggregate.

"I am so proud of my players, they tried so hard and put all their energy into the match. They are winners," said Ivankovic.

"I am also so proud of the great atmosphere, the Persepolis fans showed they are the best and we appreciate them."

A stalwart rearguard action from the visitors frustrated their hosts and the bulk of the 100,000 supporters who had crammed themselves into the cavernous venue in Tehran, with Persepolis unable to reduce Kashima’s two-goal advantage.

Of the few chances that did fall Persepolis’ way, the majority came to striker Ali Alipour but he was unable to make them count, as Go Oiwa’s side secured the 0-0 draw to make it back-to-back Asian champions from the J.League after Urawa Red Diamonds’ triumph last year.

Suzuki's performances in the 2018 AFC Champions League played a pivotal role in Kashima's surge to the title for the first time, with the 22-year-old striker - with two goals to his name - having developed a solid understanding with Brazilian Serginho.

"I am really, really happy with the fact that I was selected for the ACL MVP. but this award is not just about myself but it’s the result of the team performance," said Suzuki.

After the final won 2-0 on aggregate by Japan’s Kashima Antlers against Persepolis of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Shaikh Salman said : "Football in Asia has always been inclusive and the AFC welcomes supporters no matter their creed, beliefs, gender or race.

"I thank the authorities in IR Iran for making it possible for a diverse and socially representative crowd to witness an extraordinary occasion. Tonight was historic in so many ways and showed that the AFC continues to develop their competitions.

"So much credit must go to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran for their co-operation and support in staging this memorable final."