Match Preview
As Shanghai Shenhua prepares to face Ulsan Hyundai in the AFC Champions League on October 1, both teams come into the match with contrasting recent form. Shanghai has shown resilience with a mixed bag of results, recording two wins, two draws, and a loss in their last five matches. In contrast, Ulsan has struggled, managing just one win alongside three losses and a draw in the same period. This disparity in form could be pivotal, especially considering the importance of momentum in knockout competitions.
Historically, the head-to-head record leans slightly in favour of Ulsan, who have secured two wins in their last three encounters with Shanghai. However, the Chinese side will be buoyed by their home advantage, which could play a crucial role in the outcome. A key angle to watch is the potential for both teams to score; with three of their last ten meetings ending in both teams finding the net, this match could see an open contest, particularly if Shanghai Shenhua capitalises on their attacking strengths early on.