Shanghai’s chances of qualification for next phase made harder

Shanghai Shenhua face a tough task of qualifying for the next phase of the Asian Champions League after a 1-1 draw with Singapore Armed Forces.

Shanghai coach Jia Xiuquan said his players were struggling when playing away from home but put in a good effort to grab a point with an injury-time equaliser.

“The players tried their best and created many chances. They remained resilient to the end,” said Jia, whose team must beat group leaders Kashima Antlers in their final match and hope that Suwon fail to beat SAF at home.

“The main problem for us is scoring away from home as we have been getting too few goals from so many chances. We need to work on this area.

“I had mentioned before that SAF are not a weak team and it is possible for them to score goals. It was no shame for us when they scored first.

“But it will now be very difficult for us to progress to the next round after the draw tonight.”