South Korea's Gangwon FC celebrated a milestone victory in their AFC Champions League debut on Tuesday, overcoming China's Shanghai Shenhua 2-1 in a thrilling Group Stage opener. The match marked Gangwon's first-ever win in Asia's premier club competition, delighting home fans in Chuncheon.
Shanghai Shenhua, balancing domestic league ambitions with continental commitments, fielded a rotated squad but struck first through Portuguese midfielder Joao Teixeira. His 45th-minute solo effort—a curling shot into the top corner—rewarded the visitors' resilience after sustained Gangwon pressure.
The hosts rallied after halftime, with veteran defender Hong Chul leveling the score in the 54th minute. Gangwon sealed their historic win nine minutes later when forward Gu Bon-cheol capitalized on defensive confusion to slot home the decisive goal.
Analysts note the result highlights growing competitiveness in East Asian football, with Gangwon becoming the fourth South Korean club to defeat Chinese Super League opposition this season. Shanghai Shenhua will look to rebound in their next Group F match against Australian side Melbourne City on September 18.
