Preview - Group H: Shanghai SIPG FC (CHN) v Ulsan Hyundai FC (KOR)

Published on: 20 May 2019

Shanghai: Chinese Super League champions Shanghai SIPG have their 2019 AFC Champions League destiny in their hands on Tuesday with the visit of Group H winners Ulsan Hyundai of Korea Republic.

A clash between two of the most in-form teams in East Asia is set to bring a worthy conclusion to Group H when K-League table-toppers Ulsan are hosted by China PR's second-placed side Shanghai SIPG.

The hosts are currently on a 10-match unbeaten run across all competitions, with their last defeat coming on April 5 against Chongqing Lifan. They have only suffered one loss on the Continent this campaign, too, although that was against Tuesday's opponents Ulsan.

Their target is clear: a win over their Korean visitors and they will guarantee qualification to the Round of 16. A draw or even a defeat would be enough should Kawasaki Frontale fail to win away at Sydney FC, but the team will surely wish to avoid such a nervous conclusion to the match at Shanghai Stadium.


Ulsan, meanwhile, are coming to Shanghai with the pressure off having already secured top spot in Group H. The K-League side are one of only three in this year's AFC Champions League to remain unbeaten going into the final round of Group Stage ties and will look to continue that momentum into the Round of 16.

Currently leading the standings of their domestic championship, Ulsan's investments ahead of the 2019 season look to have been valuable additions with, in particular, their defence outstanding - the Koreans have conceded the fewest goals in the continental tournament so far.

Last time the two faced off at Ulsan Munsu Football Stadium on Matchday Two, Junior Negrao's 66th-minute goal was the difference-maker in a 1-0 victory, and the Brazilian will be the key source of goals for his side once again. Shanghai, of course, have their own dangerous Brazilians with Hulk, Oscar and Elkeson once more likely to lead the attack.


Source: the-afc.com

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