Azadi’s Atmosphere Incredible: Kashima Antlers' Misao
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - Kashima Antlers' Kento Misao believes the atmosphere of the Azadi Stadium in Tehran is incredible.
The 22-year-old played a key role as Japan’s Kashima Antlers sealed its maiden continental crown with a 0-0 second leg draw away to Persepolis of Iran on Saturday, after winning the first leg of the final 2-0.
“It was an incredible atmosphere, one that you don’t get the chance to savor very often, and we were able to become champion in it. I think that is important psychologically and for us as people,” Misao said.
“It helps with regards to knowing how to play against opponents around Asia and what their strong points are. Until now I have mostly come up against teams from East Asia, and so I think this will become a valuable experience,” he stated.
The Tokyo-native is part of an exciting crop of young talent involved in Hajime Moriyasu’s new-look Japan squad, and he feels achieving ACL glory in such an intimidating environment – the Azadi Stadium was packed to the rafters and a cacophony of noise - will only help him develop as a player.
