In Tuesday’s AFC Champions League Elite action, Chengdu Rongcheng delivered a tenacious performance to secure a 1-0 victory over Gangwon FC at home, while CSL leaders Shanghai Port were held to a 1-1 draw by Japan’s Sanfrecce Hiroshima.
Chengdu struggled to create clear chances in the opening 30 minutes, but broke the deadlock in the 35th minute when Zhou Dingyang met Yang Shuai’s header and drilled a powerful volley past Lee Gwang-yeon. The goal marked Chengdu’s first three points of the campaign after an opening-day defeat to Ulsan HD FC.
Gangwon mounted a late push for an equaliser. In the 74th minute, goalkeeper Jian Tao rushed off his line to punch Goo Boon-cheol’s dangerous cross away, and Yun Il-lok narrowly missed with a curling effort shortly after. Despite sustained pressure, Chengdu held firm to claim a vital win.
Sanfrecce’s sharp passing unlocked Shanghai Port’s defence in the 19th minute when Hayato Araki nodded home Shunki Higashi’s corner. Shanghai pressed relentlessly and were rewarded in the 83rd minute as substitute Gabriel Souza collected the ball near midfield, sprinted clear, and fired a low drive past Keisuke Osako.
Drama flared in stoppage time as Shanghai striker Gustavo was sent off for violent conduct, but the Chinese giants managed to see out a valuable point on the road.
These results set the tone for the group stage, with Chengdu bouncing back and Shanghai Port maintaining their unbeaten run. Stay tuned for more ACL Elite updates as the battle for Asia’s top prize continues.
Reference(s):
Chengdu Rongcheng grinds out narrow win, Shanghai Port held to draw
cgtn.com
