The opening match of the J.League Asia Challenge in Thailand took place on Tuesday afternoon, with Kashima Antlers coming from behind to defeat Thai League representatives Suphanburi by a 4-2 final score.
A starting lineup of new and young Antlers players struggled early, allowing the opening goal to Suphanburi’s Dellatore in the 12th minute on a defensive error.
After Yuma Suzuki made the score level off a corner kick in the 26th minute, Dellatorre struck again in the 39th minute for his second goal of the day.
Facing a 2-1 deficit at the half, Antlers brought on newcomers Pedro Junior and Leo Silva who quickly changed the pace of the match. After Suzuki drew a penalty kick close to the hour mark, Pedro Junior converted from the spot to make it 2-2.
Silva assisted Suzuki’s second goal of the day shortly after, and Pedro Junior was quick to complete his own brace in the 69th minute for the 4-2 win.
Antlers will next face Bangkok United, who lost 3-2 to Yokohama F. Marinos later on Tuesday, in the final day of the competition on Thursday at Rajamangala Stadium.
