The Japanese side conceded four late goals to slump to a 6-2 defeat in Jeddah last week, which leaves them with a seemingly impossible task to reach the final.

But Nagoya showed they perhaps have the stomach for a battle as they came back from three goals down to draw 3-3 with Jubilo Iwata in the J.League at the weekend.

Stojkovic has urged his players to prove they are capable of beating the best as they look to secure their maiden Champions League final appearance.

"We have to play for our reputation," said the former Yugoslavia international. "We want to show that we can play good football and that we are a good team.

"It will be difficult, it is not fair to talk yet about the final after losing 6-2 but we shall see."

Stojkovic has been boosted by the return to fitness of defender Takahiro Masukawa and striker Keiji Tamada, who this season has struck up a fine partnership with Australia international Josh Kennedy.

Kennedy scored in the first leg against Al Ittihad while both he and Tamada were on the scoresheet against Jubilo at the weekend.

"Masukawa and Tamada are both back for us so that is important," added Stojkovic.

"But Kennedy is a very important player and I he can continue to score quality strikes. He is a key player for us and I hope he can keep his good form up."

Al Ittihad coach Gabriel Calderon, meanwhile, has urged his side to take lessons from the Saudi side's 2004 Champions League triumph.

Al Ittihad had lost the first leg of the final 3-1 to South Korean side Seongnam Ilhwa but bounced back with a 5-0 win in the second leg and claim the continental title.

"Al Ittihad have good experience in Asia," said Calderon. "Five years ago we had lost the first leg of the final 3-1 but then won 5-0 in the second leg to win so we know that anything can happen.

"This semi-final is only 50% complete and there is still half to go. I am looking for the same performance that my players showed in the first leg in this match."