Kashima have already disposed of China's Changchun Yatai and K-League champions Jeonbuk Motors and welcome an Indonesian side to Kashima who were on the wrong end of a 9-0 demolition in China two weeks ago.

"As we haven't qualified for the next stage this is a game we need to win," said Kashima coach Oswaldo Oliveira.

"Persipura could be called an underdog but they are getting stronger every year. They suffered a heavy defeat in their previous game in poor conditions, playing in weather they are not used to, and that could be a reason for their big defeat."

Kashima are set to be without Fellype Gabriel after the Brazilian midfielder suffered an injury in the win over Omiya Ardij in the J. League on Saturday.

Despite the nature of their second defeat of the competition, the Indonesia champions remain upbeat.

"There is a big gap between ACL games and our local league matches in terms of standard, physical aspect and mental aspect," said coach Jacksen Tiago.

"We learned a lot from our 9-0 defeat against the Chinese side. What we have to do is transition from our local standard to the ACL standard."

In Changchun, Jeonbuk and Changchun will look to improve their qualification chances at Changchun Jingkai Stadium.

With Chinese Super League runners-up Changchun holding a healthy goal difference, Jeonbuk coach Choi Kang-hee knows the 2006 Asian champions cannot afford to slip behind, with both sides currently sitting on three points and seemingly in a battle for second place behind Kashima.

"We do respect our Chinese rivals because they are a strong side, but we believe that we will walk away with a victory," he said.

Changchun coach Shen Xiangfu will have midfielder Du Zhunyu, who missed the win over Persipura, and goalkeeper Zong Lei, who has yet to feature, at his disposal.

"I am not sure whether we can win, but I am sure that we have made enough preparation for the crucial showdown," he said.

"The performance of both sides will probably be affected by the chilly weather, but it is still fair to both teams."