Shandong Taishan falls 2-3 to Kawasaki Frontale in AFC Champions League quarter-finals
In an intense matchup in the AFC Champions League quarter-finals, Shandong Taishan faced off against Kawasaki Frontale at home and ultimately fell 2-3 in a hard-fought battle.
The game started with both teams showing their offensive prowess, with Kazaishvili from Shandong Taishan and Kawasaki’s Marcinho making notable plays early on. However, it was Kawasaki Frontale who took the lead in the 25th minute after Li Yuanyi was suspected of handball in the penalty area, resulting in a penalty kick that was successfully converted by Ellison.
Kawasaki Frontale continued to apply pressure and extended their lead with a header from Marcinho in the 32nd minute, putting Shandong Taishan at a 0-2 deficit going into halftime.
Following the break, Shandong Taishan showed resiliency and determination, with Fernando scoring in the 66th minute to close the gap to 1-2. However, Kawasaki Frontale responded with another goal in the 78th minute, as Akihiro Chan found the back of the net, bringing the score to 1-3.
Despite the odds stacked against them, Shandong Taishan continued to fight and narrowed the gap once again with a header from Judson in the 85th minute, making it 2-3. However, it wasn’t enough to secure a comeback, and the game ended with a 2-3 victory for Kawasaki Frontale.
With the first leg now concluded, Shandong Taishan will have an opportunity to bounce back in the second leg, which is scheduled to take place at 16:00 on Tuesday, February 20th, where they will face Kawasaki Frontale on their home turf.
Fans can expect an electrifying rematch as both teams look to secure a spot in the semi-finals of the AFC Champions League.