KASHIMA, Ibaraki Pref. (Kyodo) Japanese interest in the Asian Champions League ended Wednesday after Kashima Antlers were knocked out in the round of 16 with a 1-0 defeat to defending champions Pohang Steelers of South Korea.
Brazilian striker Mota scored what turned out to be winner with a deflected effort in the first half at Kashima Stadium to send Pohang into the quarterfinals a day after K-League rivals Seongnam Ilhwa sent Gamba Osaka packing.