Japanese champions Kashima Antlers demolished Singapore Armed Forces 4-1 in their Group G clash in the Asian Champions League in Singapore.

The loss ends SAFFC's chance of qualification in the tournament but they will now be hoping to gain some respect and get some wins in their remaining three matches.

Masashi Motoyama opened the scoring for the Antlers with a volley in the 23rd minute but that goal was pegged back through Hafiz Osman just two minutes later.

SAF held their own for the next 20 minutes or so until Atsuto Uchida edged the visitors back in front on the counter-attack.

The Antlers were ruthless after the break and struck again early in the second half through Yuya Osako who headed home to make scores 3-1.

SAF skipper Aleksandar Durci had the chance to get his side a touch closer but missed a penalty and it got worse for the home team when Daniel Bennett knocked in an own goal in injury time.

The win puts the Antlers equal with both Shanghai Shenhua and Suwon Bluewings, all on six points, which has made for an interesting race to see who will progress to the next round.

Unfortunately the Singapore champions will have to wait until next season to improve on their efforts.