TOKYO – Players for J1 League newcomers Machida Zelvia have admitted to being increasingly perplexed by their unexpected deep run in the AFC Champions League, with several team members reportedly asking coaches, “Are we still doing these exhibitions, or is there an actual tournament happening?”

Having just secured promotion to Japan’s top domestic league, the club’s rapid ascent through Asia’s most prestigious club competition has left many, including the players themselves, scratching their heads. “I thought we were just getting some extra conditioning in before the real season,” confessed midfielder Kaito Suzuki, wiping sweat from his brow after a recent quarter-final victory. “Then suddenly, we’re flying to Qatar, and the stadium is full, and they’re playing a really dramatic anthem. It’s a bit much for a friendly, isn’t it?”

Club management, while publicly celebrating the team’s success, has privately acknowledged the unique challenge. “It’s difficult to motivate them for the next round when they keep asking if they’ll get their appearance fees for these ‘extra games’ soon,” stated team manager Takeshi Tanaka, who reportedly had to explain the concept of a ‘trophy’ to several players last week. “We’re just trying to keep them focused on the next ‘scrimmage’ against Al-Hilal.”

Sources close to the team suggest the players are now primarily motivated by the promise of a free, all-expenses-paid trip to the final, which they believe will be a particularly elaborate team-building exercise.