Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Shanghai: Shanghai SIPG host domestic rivals Jiangsu FC in the first leg of the AFC Champions League Round of 16 on Wednesday looking to maintain their perfect home record in the continental competition.
The hosts have been in scintillating form at Shanghai Stadium having scored 12 goals in just three games, although they could face their toughest task yet against a Jiangsu side that have won three from three on the road.
While both teams have been impressive on the continent, their fortunes domestically could hardly be more different.
Shanghai defeated city rivals Shanghai Shenhua 3-1 on Saturday to remain second in the Chinese Super League while Jiangsu lost 2-1 at Guangzhou Evergrande a day earlier and sit bottom of the table.
The welcome news for the visitors is that Ramires and Tao Yuan will return from suspension ahead of what will be their maiden appearance in the knockout stages.
Photo: Lagardère Sports