With both already assured of a place in the one-off round of 16, Kashima defend their 100% record and three-point lead at home to China's Changchun Yatai, while Jeonbuk entertain whipping boys Persipura Jayapura of Indonesia.

Kashima entertain Jeonbuk at the end of April in the final group game and currently hold the head-to-head advantage after recording a 2-1 win in Korea last month.

"We aim to make a big impact in the continental tournament this season and we have to go all out in this game," said Kashima coach Oswaldo Oliveira, who will be without suspended midfielder Masashi Motoyama.

"Changchun are a powerful team even though they are out of contention. The team proved quite competitive and dangerous in the previous games."

Kashima could only edge out the Chinese Super League runners-up 1-0 in Japan at the start of the campaign and Changchun coach Shen Xiangfu has not given up hope of a second win.

"Some of my players have got very tired," he added. "I will have to field some youngsters to inject new vigor into the starting team.

"Throwing new faces on the pitch doesn't necessarily mean we have given up. On the contrary, it is in line with our efforts to chase a victory."

At Jeonju World Cup Stadium, Jeonbuk will be without suspended midfielder Jo Seung-kang as Choi Kang-hee's side look to keep the pressure on Kashima.

"We have been playing difficult games recently, but we never give up and are able to get the result we want. This is an encouragement to us," said Choi.

"We are playing in the Champions League and it means that we have to deal with a tough schedule. We signed many new players and existing players are healthy too. That makes me confident."

Persipura have conceded 21 goals while scoring just twice in four defeats and coach Jacksen Tiago is set to rest several players with his side in the hunt for the Indonesian League title.

"We are doing well in the domestic league, we are aiming to win the league actually," he said. "Therefore, I did not bring my best players so we can focus on the league schedule."