AFC Champions League Elite - Muscat pleased, Skibbe disappointed

Hiroshima: Head coach Kevin Muscat was pleased with his side’s character after Shanghai Port FC recovered from a goal down to earn a 1-1 draw with Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the AFC Champions League Elite™ 2025/26 on Tuesday.

The China PR champions fell behind to Hayato Araki’s first-half strike but Gabriel Souza netted late to ensure the visitors left Japan with a valuable point, having suffered a 3-0 defeat to Vissel Kobe in their opening match.

#ACLElite | Sanfrecce Hiroshima (JPN) 1-1 Shanghai Port FC (CHN)

The Australian tactician acknowledged his team struggled to find their rhythm in the opening 45 minutes but praised their improvement after the break.

“We went a goal down from a corner, which was disappointing. At half-time, we felt we were a little indecisive in our belief to keep the ball, and too many passes didn’t find the target. But credit to the team, the second half was much better. We caused problems, created overloads in midfield and gained more control,” said Muscat.

“We also recognised we were up against a very good side. Michael’s teams are always organised, physically strong and technically sharp. In the end, we’re satisfied to take a point back to Shanghai.”

The result left Sanfrecce head coach Michael Skibbe frustrated, with his side punished for not putting away several excellent chances after having opened their campaign with a 2-0 win against Melbourne City Fc two weeks.

“We played very well. We created a lot of chances in the first half and even more in the second,” said Skibbe. “But as has often been the case this season, we weren’t able to finish those opportunities. And if you don’t take your chances, sometimes one or two for the opponent is enough for them to score.

“Tonight we feel unlucky and disappointed with the result, but if you don’t convert, things like this can happen.”

Sanfrecce face Korea Republic’s Ulsan HD next on October 21 while Shanghai Port will host FC Machida Zelvia of Japan.

Muscat pleased, Skibbe disappointed

Draw a fair result for Kuroda, Munoz

Chow inspires Chengdu to maiden home triumph

Choi hails teammates after FC Seoul pass Buriram test

Al Sadd must improve, admits Sanchez

Sousa: Shabab Al Ahli were outstanding