Ange Postecoglou’s Yokohama Marinos send-off saw them crash out of the Emperor’s Cup after a humiliating exit to FC Honda.
It’s widely expected that the Australian will now leave the J League side in order to become Celtic ’s new manager.
But his current club were sent crashing out by the fourth tier side, who’s GOALKEEPER Yuki Kusumoto netted from the spot during normal time before winning 4-3 on penalties.
Postecoglou was given a warm reception from fans before the game with his switch to the Scottish Premiership now inevitable.
But they might be glad to see the back of him now after a shocker of a result.
FC Honda play in the Japan Football League - the island nation’s equivalent of League Two - and have won the title four years in a row.
They haven’t accepted promotion however as they aren’t interested in obtaining their J League licence.
As a works team for the car manufacturing company they would be forced to give up their corporate identity if they wanted to climb the leagues.
But they proved they can mix it with the big boys by dumping Postecoglou’s boys out after a 4-3 penalty shoot-out win.
They took the lead when ‘keeper Kusumoto slotted home form the spot after just 28 minutes before Marinos’ Brazilian forward levelled on 67 minutes after Postecoglou made four changes at the break.
They looked to have won it in extra-time when Leo Ceara put them ahead, only for Yuki Okazaki to square things up again before Honda triumphed on penalties.
Dispensation has been applied for in order for Postecoglou to take the reins at Celtic Park given he doesn't hold the relevant UEFA coaching licence, although it's thought this won't prevent him from becoming Neil Lennon 's successor.
