In a thrilling match of the Asian Champions League, Gwangju FC secured a 1-0 victory over Shanghai Shenhua, thanks to a swift goal by substitute Jasir Asani. Entering the game in the 58th minute, Asani made an immediate impact by firing a low drive past goalkeeper Bao Yaxiong with his first touch of the ball.
“I told the coach I would score with my first touch,” Asani revealed after the match. “I need to score more to help the team.” His goal not only underscores his position as the competition’s top scorer with seven goals but also cements Gwangju’s position as second in the league phase.
Elsewhere, Yokohama F. Marinos climbed to third place with a 2-0 victory over Pohang Steelers, overtaking Kawasaki Frontale. Yan Matheus opened the scoring before halftime, and Anderson Lopes sealed the win with a late penalty after Ken Matsubara was fouled. Marinos goalkeeper Hiroki Iikura preserved the clean sheet by saving a Pohang penalty in stoppage time.
The standings see both Gwangju FC and Yokohama F. Marinos trailing Japan’s Vissel Kobe, who currently lead the race for one of East Asia’s eight spots in the last 16. Shanghai Shenhua sits in sixth place, level on seven points with Thailand’s Buriram United but ahead on goal difference.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
