Thanks to a last-second header from Hiroyuki Takasaki, the Kashima Antlers defeated Guangzhou Evergrande 2-1 in the AFC Champions League Group H in Kashima, Japan, on Tuesday.
Yasushi Endo converted a penalty in the 19th minute to give the lead to Kashima. Guangzhou managed to even the score in the 75th minute after a score from Elkeson, but Takasaki's goal in the last second of injury time sealed the fate of the visiting Chinese team.
With three games and nine points under their belt, Guangzhou started the contest brightly, but the erstwhile group leaders found themselves behind 19 minutes in the game.
Endo converted from the penalty sport after his cross was blocked by the arm of Kim Younggwon. Brazilian striker Elkeson attempted a promising rally in the 35th minute, but the home side's keeper Hitoshi Sogahata was at full stretch to deny the sharp-angled free-kick shot.
Elkeson finally managed a goal in the 75th minute with the help of Gao Lin's chipped cross from the left.
It was Kashima's late substitute, Takasaki, who jumped high up in the penalty area to head home Shibasaki's free-kick cross, that lead to the goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time.
The Antlers have charged back into contention again after winning their first game in the group, as Western Sydney Wanderers eked a draw 1-1 against Seoul FC, who each have five points after four games. Guangzhou required just another point to gain a slot in the final 16.
"The spirit of 'never give up' led us to the final victory, this is our tradition," Kashima coach Toninho Cerezo told Xinhua during the post-match press conference.
"I have to admit we are in a difficult condition, a few players can't play due to injuries, but we have to be calm and confident," Guangzhou's coach Fabio Cannavaro said.