AFC Champions League 2018 Final: Second leg preview

Kashima are on the verge of a historic result unless Persepolis can pull off a stunning comeback...

's Kashima Antlers travel to 's Persepolis in the second leg of the final of the AFC on Saturday, looking to consolidate on their first leg win.

Kashima Antlers won the first leg 2-0 at home thanks to goals from Brazilian duo Leo Silva and Serginho and now will look to build on that result and win the crown in Iran.

But Persepolis have been brilliant at home so far and are certainly capable of effecting a stunning turnaround as they have shown time and time again in the tournament. All points towards an exciting finale to Asia's premier club competition.

The Tehran giants are unbeaten at home but will need to score at least two goals without conceding if they are to ensure they enjoy a memorable evening on Saturday. They will have to do so without suspended midfielder Siamak Nemati, who was sent off in the first leg following two bookable offences.

Kashima Antlers know that their destiny is firmly in their own hands. With a two-goal cushion established, all they need is one more goal to make the task virtually impossible for Persepolis.

Ali Alipour is Persepolis' main man up front with five strikes to his name. Serginho and Leo Silva are the men to watch out for in the Japanese team's ranks.