Harry Kewell, the former Liverpool and Australian winger, now manager of Yokohama F. Marinos, is optimistic about his team’s chances of emulating his 2005 Istanbul success with Liverpool in the upcoming Asian Champions League semifinal second leg on Wednesday. Kewell was an integral part of the Liverpool team that famously came back from a three-goal deficit to defeat AC Milan on penalties in the 2005 Champions League final, although he was unfortunately forced off injured after just 23 minutes. Despite his early departure from the match, Kewell’s contribution to Liverpool’s historic triumph cannot be overstated. Now, as manager of Yokohama F. Marinos, Kewell is hoping to inspire his team to similar heights in continental competition.
Kewell took over as coach of Yokohama at the beginning of this year and has quickly guided the Japanese club to their first Asian Champions League semi-final. Yokohama F. Marinos face an uphill battle in the second leg, as they trail Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal 2-1 from the first leg. However, Kewell is confident that his team can overcome the deficit and reach the final.
“We know it’s going to be a tough game, but we believe in ourselves,” Kewell said. “We have a good team, and we’re playing at home. We’re going to go out there and give it our all. We want to do something magical.”
Kewell’s optimism is shared by his players.
“We’re all excited for the game,” said Yokohama captain Sho Sasaki. “We know it’s going to be a big challenge, but we’re ready for it. We’re going to go out there and fight for everything.”
The Asian Champions League final will be played on November 26th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
