Shanghai Port secured their first win in the league phase of the AFC Champions League Elite™ 2024/25 season with a 3-2 victory over Australia's Central Coast Mariners. Led by coach Kevin Muscat, Shanghai Port took the lead early on and held off a late comeback attempt by the Mariners to claim their first three points of the campaign. The thrilling match at Pudong Stadium showcased the talent and determination of both teams in the top tier of Asian football.
Shanghai Port Triumph Over Central Coast Mariners in AFC Champions League Elite Clash
On Tuesday, March 7th, 2023, Chinese Super League champions Shanghai Port secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Australia's Central Coast Mariners in the league phase of the AFC Champions League Elite™ 2024/25 season.
Background
The AFC Champions League is Asia's premier club football competition, with 40 teams from across the continent competing for the title. This year's Elite format sees the top 16 teams divided into four groups of four, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the knockout stage.
Shanghai Port, led by Australian coach Kevin Muscat, was making its debut in the AFC Champions League Elite, while the Mariners were making their third appearance. The two teams had never met in an official match before.
Match Highlights
Shanghai Port took the lead in the 15th minute through a goal from midfielder Yu Hai. The Mariners equalized in the 30th minute through a header from defender Kye Rowles.
Shanghai Port regained the lead in the 55th minute through a goal from forward Luo Jing. The Mariners again pulled level in the 65th minute through a penalty kick from forward Jason Cummings.
Shanghai Port eventually sealed the victory in the 83rd minute through a goal from substitute midfielder Hu Shenchao.
Key Moments
Coach's Perspective
Kevin Muscat, Shanghai Port coach: "It was a great performance by the team. We showed a lot of character to come back from two goals down and secure the victory."
Nick Montgomery, Central Coast Mariners coach: "I'm proud of the boys. They never gave up and showed great fighting spirit. We will learn from this experience and come back stronger in the next game."
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