Shanghai: Shanghai SIPG will book their place in the next round of the 2017 AFC Champions League with a point at home to FC Seoul in Group F at Shanghai Stadium on Wednesday.
The Chinese side won their opening three games on the continent before going down 1-0 to Urawa Red Diamonds two weeks ago. But second-placed Shanghai have a six-point lead over FC Seoul and Western Sydney Wanderers – third and fourth respectively – and remain on the brink of advancing to the last 16.
Semi-finalists in 2016, the visitors have been unable to replicate that form this year and only an unlikely series of results will see them progress this time round. Needing victory in China, the side from the Korean capital will also have to make do without suspended captain Osmar Barba.
The hosts defeated Hebei China Fortune FC 3-0 in the Chinese Super League on Friday and have won every game in front of home support this year, while FC Seoul defeated Incheon United in the K-League Classic a day later.
Photo: Lagardère Sports
Source: the-afc.com