Guangzhou beat Vissel Kobe to end winless run
DOHA: Chinese giants Guangzhou Evergrande snapped a seven-game winless streak in the Asian Champions League with a 2-0 victory over Japan’s Vissel Kobe.
First-half goals from Brazilians Anderson Talisca and Ai Kesen were enough for Guangzhou to avenge their defeat to Vissel Kobe just three days ago and put themselves in contention for a spot in the last 16.
Italian legend Fabio Cannavaro had been at his wit’s end with his team’s inability to crack open rival defences, conceding he didn’t have an explanation as to what was wrong with them.
But the strong words he has directed at his team finally seemed to have their desired effect as the 2013 and 2015 winners jumped to second spot in Group G with four points, two behind leaders Vissel Kobe.
Saturday’s opponents had already qualified after two wins from as many matches, with their group left with only three teams following the withdrawal of Johor Darul Ta’zim.
“We started very well and did well in the first half. Anderson Talisca scored and everyone was happy,” Cannavaro said.
“I am not so happy about our second half performance because we controlled the game and only looked to see it through, because 2-0 can be sometimes a small and risky margin.
“However, I am happy for the players, because winning the game can give you a lot of confidence.”
Meanwhile in Group H, Shanghai SIPG edged Yokohama F. Mariners 2-1 to end the Japanese side’s three-game winning streak in the competition.
Shanghai had lost their first clash against Yokohama on Wednesday but made good of the limited opportunities that came their way on Saturday to go level on points with the Mariners, who stay ahead on goal difference. — AFP