J-League side Kashima Antlers kicked off their Academy Tour on Tuesday night at Wanderers Football Park when they took on the Wanderers Academy Under 15s and a combined Under 16/17s team.
The Kashima Antlers Under 16’s Academy side defeated the Under 15’s Wanderers Academy team ten-nil in a convincing performance that proved a great learning experience for our academy prospects.
Kashima opened the scoring within the opening minutes of the match with a well-executed combination play, setting the tone for the match. Despite the Wanderers’ determination and resilience, it was the Japanese sides experience that proved decisive. Kashima’s timing, precision and technical ability stood out, as they showcased their prowess in both set pieces and open play.
Wanderers’ Academy Player Will Karatasos was a shining light for the Red & Black as he stepped up to a physical Antlers team.
Karatasos demonstsrated his ability to keep up with the pace of the match and showed fearlessness in challenges, confidently stepping up against the Antlers U16s.
The Wanderers’ combined Under 16/17s posed a tougher challenger for Kashima Antlers but ultimately fell 2-0 to the Japanese side.
The Red & Black showcased five Under 16’s players in the combined side, further highlighting the depth of talent in the Wanderers Academy and its potential future superstars.
The first half ended goalless in a fiercely contested, end-to-end battle. The Wanderers created the best chance of the half with a brilliant run down the left flank, followed by a precise pass across goal, only to be denied by an agile save from the goalkeeper.
It wasn’t until the 60th minute, where a through ball in behind led to a clinical finish by the Antlers striker, followed by a 75th minute cut back for a back post finish.
The Wanderers’ Academy provided an enticing challenge for the Japanese side, who in Japan are recognised as one of the leading teams in the J-League since its inception.
Their Academy was a great representation of their successful development, and the response from the Red & Black proved that they have their own stake to claim as one of the leading academies here on ground soil.
Kashima Antlers U18s head coach Hiroshi Nakano said the match was a great challenge for his Academy side.
“First half my team faced pressure in defence because of how good the Wanderers attacked, it was important in the second half my team scored to get the win,” said Nakano.
“The Wanderers are a very technical and strong team”
Nakano also spoke on the difference in the countries different playing styles.
“Very physical, has a lot of speed, high level (intensity), strong and technical. Where the Japan Style is very technical and quick,” said Nakano.
Overall, the international friendly was a thrilling spectacle, highlighting two distinct styles of football while providing valuable experience for the Wanderers’ Academy as they continue to develop and grow as players.
The Western Sydney Wanderers thank Kashima Antlers for visiting Wanderers Football Park and showcasing the excitement of international youth football. This marks Kashima’s second match against the Wanderers Academy, further highlighting the club’s ongoing commitment to fostering strong relationships with clubs across Asia.
