Published: 12:18, April 22, 2022 | Updated: 12:22, April 22, 2022
Shandong Thaishan scores 1st point in AC Champions League
By Xinhua

BANGKOK - Shandong Taishan FC picked up a spirited first point in the AFC Champions League group stage on Thursday after a goalless draw with Singapore's Lion City Sailors.

Shandong Taishan FC successfully held up Lion City Sailors, who produced a stunning 3-0 win over South Korea's Daegu FC 3-0 in their previous match

The youthful Chinese Super League champions successfully held up Lion City Sailors, who produced a stunning 3-0 win over South Korea's Daegu FC 3-0 in their previous match.

The Champions League debutants were in firm control against Shandong, but two attempts by South Korean striker Kim Shin-wook, who had played in the Chinese Super League, were denied by goalkeeper Cao Zheng.

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In an earlier match, the other Chinese team Guangzhou FC declined to go down without a fight despite a 3-0 loss to South Korean League leader Ulsan Hyundai FC, who was eager for the first win in Group I especially after a surprising 2-1 loss to Johor Darul Ta'zim of Malaysia.

Guangzhou's players were constantly kept in their own half to focus on their defense efforts led by goalkeeper He Lipan, who made several crucial saves and was only beaten in the 28th minute by a free kick from Mark Koszta.

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The inexperience of Guangzhou defenders cost them two more goals in the second half.

Guangzhou suffered a 5-0 thrashing to Johor Darul Ta'zim in their opening match, before a humiliating 8-0 defeat to Frontale.