Shanghai Shenhua from the Chinese Super League (CSL) celebrated a resounding 2-0 win against Kawasaki Frontale of Japan’s J1 League in the AFC Champions League Elite match on Wednesday evening in Shanghai.
The match took a decisive turn early on when Kawasaki’s striker Marcio received a straight red card for a stamp on Amadou, leaving the visitors with ten men. Capitalizing on the numerical advantage, Shanghai Shenhua pressed forward aggressively.
In the 23rd minute, Wang Haijian broke through the defense and unleashed a shot from around the penalty arc. The ball deflected off a defender, wrong-footing the goalkeeper and finding the back of the net, giving the home side a 1-0 lead.
Despite creating multiple scoring opportunities for the remainder of the first half, Shanghai Shenhua couldn’t extend their lead. Kawasaki Frontale, undeterred by their disadvantage, mounted several threatening attacks. Asahi Sasaki’s long-range effort nearly equalized, but goalkeeper Bao Yaxiong’s fingertips diverted the ball onto the post.
The tension remained high until injury time when Andre Luis was brought down in the penalty area, earning Shanghai Shenhua a crucial penalty kick. Luis confidently converted from the spot, sealing a 2-0 victory and securing their second win in the tournament. This triumph elevated Shanghai Shenhua to fourth place in the East Region standings.
In another match that day, Vissel Kobe of Japan’s J1 League defeated Ulsan HD from South Korea’s K League 1 with a 2-0 scoreline on the road. Taisei Miyashiro was the hero for Kobe, netting both goals in the 48th and 73rd minutes. Vissel Kobe now sits in second place in the East Region with two wins and one draw, while Ulsan HD faces challenges at the bottom of the table after three consecutive losses.
The AFC Champions League continues to showcase thrilling matches, with teams across Asia competing for continental glory. Fans eagerly await the next fixtures as the tournament progresses.
Reference(s):
Shanghai Shenhua beats Kawasaki Frontale in AFC Champions League Elite
cgtn.com
