AFC Champions League Elite - Chow, Skibee satisfied with stalemate

Chengdu: Tim Chow praised Chengdu Rongcheng for their character in the 1-1 draw with Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the AFC Champions League Elite™ 2025/26 on Tuesday.

Having taken the lead through Felipe’s penalty nine minutes into the second half, Chengdu found themselves back on level terms after substitute Mutsuki Kato equalised three minutes after coming on as the sides settled for a share of the points.

#ACLElite | Chengdu Rongcheng FC (CHN) 1-1 Sanfrecce Hiroshima (JPN)

“We are quite satisfied with one point. Regardless of the result, I’m more than proud of the team’s performance and the effort we put in. We played our last league game of the season on Saturday and only managed a day’s training before playing again,” said Chow.

“I think you can see that every single player went out and gave 100 percent. We fought for every ball until the last second and showed who Chengdu are, we showed our style and for that, I’m proud.”

Chengdu head coach Seo Jung-won echoed his captain’s sentiment, highlighting the importance of the performance.

“Before the match I told the players that our fans – whether near or far – have supported us so much throughout the year, giving us strength and courage. I wanted today’s game to be our way of showing gratitude to them,” said Seo.

“Although it’s disappointing that we only drew, the players gave everything they had. We will carefully review the areas where we fell short this year and make improvements next season.”

The draw took Sanfrecce Hiroshima to eight points, with head coach Michael Skibbe expressing his satisfaction with the final outcome

“It was a very difficult match especially because of the pitch conditions and Chengdu were a physical side and very tough in one-on-one situations - they made it hard for us,” said Skibee. “However, we performed well, created good chances and controlled large parts of the game.

“In the end, we were a bit unlucky with the penalty but I believe we deserved this point. It’s an important result for us.”

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