The night was low, and under the starlight of August 22nd, the stage of world soccer was filled with a wonderful duel. In the Asian Champions League play-offs, Shanghai Seaport suffered an unexpected home defeat, 2-3 against Batangas United, missing out on a ticket to the AFC Champions League, which was undoubtedly a heavy blow. Meanwhile, Zhejiang was able to advance to the next round with a narrow 1-0 win over Thai Harbor. Riyadh beat Dubai Young Boys 4-2 in the AFC Champions League, with Crowe a dud but Talisker scoring twice to energize the team. And in the first round of the Champions League play-offs, Rangers and PSV Eindhoven shook hands 2-2.
Shanghai Seaport, the dominant player in the Chinese Super League, with a clear home field advantage and a much higher total price than their opponents, unexpectedly lost the match. What is even more unbelievable is that Shanghai Seaport's backline looked so vulnerable under Sergeyev's onslaught. Inside the penalty area, despite the superiority in numbers, the players' defense was full of holes, and the opponents easily tore through the defense. Such a level of defense is disappointing to see from this top Premier League team. Javier's tactical setup was also baffling. The opponent's five-foreigner lineup contrasted sharply with Shanghai Harbor's single foreigner.
Riyadh Victory was on the verge of elimination at one point in their clash with Dubai Young Nationals. However, trailing 1-2 with more than 80 minutes to go, there was little hope. But it was in the midst of such adversity that Riyadh Victory players pulled off a miracle. Three consecutive goals led to a 4-2 comeback win and progression to the next round, a game in which Crowe clashed with the referee and a goal was misjudged for a fall in the opponent's penalty area, while he himself failed to score. Riyadh Victory's victory is certainly the best proof of the team's hero card.
In the first round of the UEFA Champions League playoffs, Rangers started a fierce battle with Eindhoven at home. In the first half, Rangers were passive and defended, but the defense performed well. Simeon scored at the crucial moment to make the score 1-0. In the second half, Rangers conceded a goal and Sangare equalized the score. Then, Matondo's goal put Rangers ahead again. In the end, Luc De Jong stepped up and helped seal the win with a header.
