Kashima in vital ACL win over Sydney

Takuya Nozawa scored a critical late goal as Kashima Antlers beat Sydney 2-1 on Tuesday, boosting the Japanese club's chances of finishing top of its Asian Champions League group.

Kashima trailed at halftime but second-half goals from young striker Yuya Osako and then long-serving midfielder Nozawa in the 85th minute moved the Antlers temporarily top of Group H, with top spot ensuring home advantage in the sudden-death round of 16.

South Korea's Suwon Bluewings must win away at the already-eliminated Shanghai Shenhua later Tuesday if it is to reclaim first place; a draw or loss would see Kashima finish top.

Also Tuesday, South Korea's Jeonbuk Motors thrashed Indonesia's Arema 6-0 to ensure it finishes on top of Group G.