Chengdu Rongcheng and Shanghai Port hit a snag in the AFC Champions League Elite at home on Tuesday, leaving both clubs outside the East Zone top eight. Here’s the scoop on a night of near misses and what’s next for these CSL sides.
In Chengdu, fans at Phoenix Hill Sports Park saw a thrilling opener when captain Tim Chow won a penalty five minutes into the second half. Felipe stepped up, faked out goalkeeper Keisuke Osako, and buried the spot-kick in the 54th minute for what looked like the winner. ⚽✨
But Sanfrecce Hiroshima refused to roll over. Their coach made bold moves in the 60th minute, sending on Daiki Suga and Mutsuki Kato. Three minutes later, Suga’s cross found Sota Nakamura, whose crafty pass set up Kato to level the score at 1-1. The draw leaves Rongcheng 10th with five points, while Hiroshima climbs to fifth with eight.
Meanwhile, Shanghai Port also failed to secure a win at their home ground, adding pressure as they aim to climb back into contention. Both CSL sides will need to regroup fast if they hope to advance in the East Zone race.
Next up, Rongcheng heads on the road to face tough competition, while Port looks to bounce back in front of their home crowd. Stay tuned for more ⚽🔥
Reference(s):
Rongcheng and Port unable to secure wins in AFC Champions League Elite
cgtn.com
