The brand-new AFC Champions League Elite kicked off this week and Kawasaki Frontale were one of the standout teams from Matchday 1 with an impressive away win over Ulsan HD.

Frontale spent much of the match in their own half, but they defended superbly and goalkeeper Jung Sung-ryong was there to make the save when called upon.

When Frontale did go forward, they were dangerous and it paid off in the 54th minute when Marcinho got the ball on the left. He drove forward before cutting in and hitting a gorgeous curler that found the back of the net for a winner to be remembered.

The Frontale defense made Marcinho’s goal hold up with more outstanding play in their own box and when the referee blew for the final whistle, the J.League side were triumphant.

Vissel Kobe were also away in their Elite opener and they defended similarly well. They conceded very little to Thai club Buriram United and were able to get forward regularly, but a goal never came. Luck was not on their side, as multiple shots were turned around by good saves, with a goal line clearance to boot, while others just missed the frame in the 0-0 draw.

Things didn’t go as well for last season’s finalists Yokohama F·Marinos, who lost 7-3 in South Korea to Gwangju FC despite Élber’s brace.

It was a difficult Matchday 1 for the J.League teams, with all three playing away. Frontale shone bright, as the East Region’s only team to win on the road, putting them in terrific shape to begin the competition. Vissel are also well-situated with a point away from Kobe.

The tournament will resume play in two weeks with all three Japanese clubs at home for Matchday 2.