Perfect response from Vissel
Shanghai Shenhua FC would have been fancying their chances against a hurting Vissel Kobe when the sides met on Wednesday.

Vissel went into the tie on the back of defeat in the Emperor's Cup final on Saturday, having already relinquished their J1 League title but erased some of the disappointment by beating Shenhua 2-0.

They hold a three-point lead at the top of the East Zone standings and victory on Matchday Six - should results elsewhere go their way - will see the Japanese side confirming their Round of 16 spot with two matches to spare.

Can Al Hilal do it?
Simone Inzaghi has challenged his players to complete the League Stage with a perfect record after the four-time Asian champions made it five wins out of five with victory against Iraq's Al Shorta on Tuesday.

The win confirmed Al Hilal's Round of 16 spot with three matches to spare but Italian tactician Inzaghi wants his players to better last season's League Stage record of sevens wins and a draw.

Given Al Hilal's strength in depth, Inzaghi looks likely to be granted his wish.

All eyes on Melbourne City
Three consecutive wins after having kicked off their campaign with two defeats saw Melbourne City FC ending matchday Five second in the East Zone standings.

There is still some work to be done but if Melbourne City can extend their streak with victory over FC Seoul on Matchday Six, the Australian side can start dreaming of the Round of 16.

Al Wahda looking the real deal
Al Wahda have improved with each match and deservedly confirmed their Round of 16 spot with victory against Al Sadd SC.

Unbeaten after five matches and with 13 points collected, don't discount Al Wahda from going all the way - just as fellow UAE side Al Ain FC did in 2023/24.

China PR clubs in serious danger
All three China PR sides - unless they turn themselves around in the remaining three matchdays - are in danger of seeing a premature end to their respective campaigns.

Chengdu Rongcheng FC have five points, Shanghai Shenhua FC four while Shanghai Port FC only have a single draw to show from their five matches.

Their fans will expect a response.