2021 AFC Champions League Round of 16: What They Said

Dramatic penalty shootouts, debut hat-tricks, heroic displays and some sound advice, there was no shortage of talking points. Here's what those involved had to say about their teams' performances.

Next month's action will be eagerly anticipated, with the West Zone knockout stage to be played in Saudi Arabia while Korea Republic will host the East Zone.

The final on November 23 will be contested in Saudi Arabia and as the countdown begins to crown this year's AFC Champions League winners, join the-AFC.com for an early preview of the quarter-final match-ups.

Eight teams from five countries, including four former winners and the past two champions, have sealed their places in October's quarter-finals as they continue their quest for glory. As the continental competition takes a one-month break, the-AFC.com looks at the stats and facts that caught the eye in the latest round of fixtures.

Photos: Al Nassr, FC Istiklol

The eight games produced some incredible drama with three being decided by penalty shootouts while, as ever, there were a number of goals to remember. The-AFC.com has selected five of the best and ask you, the fans, to vote for your favourite at the foot of the article.

Warm favourites against a BG Pathum side appearing in the knockout stage for the first time, Jeonbuk laboured to a 4-2 penalty shootout win after a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes, with two saves from goalkeeper Song Bum-keun ultimately providing decisive.

The Korean side had looked likely winners after Brazilian forward Gustavo put them 1-0 up at half-time, but a string of missed opportunities allowed BG Pathum United to equalise through veteran Thai international Teerasil Dangda 15 minutes from time.

Lee Seung-mo’s close range effort in the 25th minute was the only goal of the game at Nagai Stadium for the three-time continental champions and keeps Pohang’s hopes of a first AFC Champions League title since 2009 alive.

It also ensured Pohang join compatriots Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors and Ulsan Hyundai FC in the last eight of the competition as clubs from Korea Republic look to continue their impressive record in the AFC Champions League.

2021 AFC Champions League Round of 16: What They Said