Gamba Osaka Advance to ACL Elite League Stage as Nawata Scores Winner Against Gangwon FC [Summary: ACLE Preliminary Stage]

The AFC Champions League Elite™ Preliminary Stage fixture between Gangwon FC of Korea Republic and Gamba Osaka was played on Tuesday.

The one-off match for a place in the ACL Elite League Stage was played at Gangwon's home ground. The two sides were evenly matched from the outset, and neither could find a breakthrough as the match remained goalless after 90 minutes.

The deadlock was finally broken in extra time. In the 103rd minute, substitute Gaku Nawata fired home a superb strike to give Gamba Osaka the lead.

Gamba Osaka then defended resolutely against Gangwon's attacks and held on to secure a 1-0 victory.

With the win, Gamba Osaka secured their place in the ACL Elite League Stage alongside Kashima, Kashiwa, Kyoto and Kobe.