The J.League side travel to Australia on top of the pool after taking four points from their opening two games and Sekizuka is confident his players will extend their unbeaten record against a team which will have the edge physically.

"Even though we're smaller, we're confident in our skills, it'll balance out," he said.

"They're a strong team. Since the establishment of the Mariners they have been strong in scouting good players.

"We'll do our best to stop their strong points and show our strengths."

Mariners boss Lawrie McKinna has focused on his team's defending as they seek their first win in the group stage.

"They're a very attacking team and like to attack in numbers," McKinna said.

"Defensively we'll have to be switched on. We've done a lot of work on defence since the game against Tianjin Teda, I'm confident we won't have so many problems on Wednesday night."

Winless Teda are hoping to translate their domestic record on to the continental stage when they visit Pohang Steelers.

Teda have made a 100% start to the new Chinese Super League season although they face a much tougher task against an experienced Steelers line-up.

Coach Zuo Shusheng is optimistic his charges can spring a surprise in South Korea.

"Our side knows the history here in Pohang, that they have won the competition and competed it in numerous times. We have to come out and show that even though we don't have the international experience, we are prepared to win," said Zuo.

"This is a learning experience for our players. We have two games behind us and now our team is able to focus more on the game than our travel schedule."

Pohang have drawn their opening two fixtures and coach Sergio Farias knows a win is essential.

"We have missed some opportunities in the first couple of matches, but now we are well aware of the importance of this match and I believe that our team is ready," said the Brazilian.

"Of course it is our goal to advance, I feel that I have the pieces of this team to go far in this competition."