Wuhan Three Town, who won the league title in 2022, have undoubtedly become the best in the Chinese Super League. The draw for the AFC Champions League group stage has placed them in the strongest first tier, and expectations are high. However, the result of the draw is not entirely determined by strength, but the strength of the opponents also affects the degree of difficulty in advancing. In the recent AFC Champions League draw, Wuhan City were unlucky to be placed in Group J with Pohang Steelers, Urawa Red Diamonds and Hanoi FC. Although Hanoi FC is from the Vietnamese league, POSCO and Urawa Red Diamonds are well known among Chinese Super League fans and are considered strong opponents.
Pohang Steelers, former AFC Champions League winners, are short on details but topped the K-League last season and have a good record with frequent and experienced encounters with Chinese Super League teams. Urawa Red Diamonds, despite finishing ninth in the J-League last season, advanced to the qualifying round with a three-goal win over Richmond. It may seem like a mediocre performance, but they have won the 2022 Asian Champions League title and have a wealth of experience in Asian tournaments that the CSL teams do not have.
Although Hanoi FC is from the Vietnamese league, it has a good strength and won the league and cup double championship. The performance of the Vietnamese national team also shows that the strength of Vietnamese players has improved dramatically, and Wuhan Sanzhen will face a serious challenge if they bring in strong reinforcements. Sanzhen's performance has declined this season and is currently ranked sixth, 17 points off the top of the table, with little hope of defending the title.
Facing three distinctive opponents, it will be difficult for Three Town to gain an advantage at home. In addition, San Zhen's performance has dropped dramatically this season and they are currently ranked sixth, 17 points away from the top of the table, with little hope of defending their title.
In order to advance to the AFC Champions League, Three Town need to strengthen their offense and defense. Recalling Malcolm and preparing for the Asian Champions League in advance, if he can return to last season's form, San Zhen's attacking firepower will be greatly improved. Once the offensive end is open, San Zhen is expected to win the game.
In addition, by fully utilizing their home field advantage and striving to win their three matches and accumulate nine points, their hopes of advancement will be greatly increased. However, Tri-Town are inexperienced in AFC Champions League matches, which is a major shortcoming for them. The coaching team needs to formulate targeted strategies to overcome the difficulties caused by inexperience.
