Tue, 30 Nov, -0001
Beijing: Alexander Stanojevic has challenged Beijing Guoan to prove the Chinese Super League side deserve their place in the last 16 of the AFC Champions League despite poor domestic form ahead of Tuesday’s first leg against Korean champions FC Seoul.
Beijing returned to the knockout stage of the AFC Champions League for the first time since 2010 with a runners-up finish in Group G behind Uzbekistan’s Bunyodkor following a goalless draw against J.League champions Sanfrecce Hiroshima two weeks ago.
And despite Beijing managing just one win in their last five domestic outings following Friday’s 2-1 defeat by Guangzhou R&F, Stanojevic is eyeing a first-leg advantage ahead of next week’s return fixture at Seoul World Cup Stadium.
“Last season we fought for the place in the AFC Champions League and now it is our time to show what we can do. We are representing China too, so we are responsible for that,” said Beijing coach Stanojevic.
“In preparing for this match we haven’t done well in the Chinese Super League, but now we have our focus on this AFC Champions League game. I hope my players can drop any burdens and show their best.”
Stanojevic has also sought the advice of Jiangsu Sainty coach Dragan Okuka following their two meetings with FC Seoul in Group E.
“Our opponents have strong wings as their two side defenders play big roles in the attacking. At the same time their attacking force is very threatening too, but we've discovered their problems in the defence,” added Stanojevic.
“I've talked to Okuka, the manager of Jiangsu, and he shared his experiences from playing against FC Seoul. What I can tell you is that I think they are good at attacking, so we will try to keep their forwards a bit further away from our goal.”
Despite winning Group E ahead of Thailand’s Buriram United after losing just once, FC Seoul have also struggled domestic this season although Choi Yong-soo’s side did record a timely 2-1 victory over Daejeon Citizen on Saturday.
“It has been very difficult for us to play both domestically and internationally. Fortunately we've been back on track during our recent games and we have done quite well in the K-League and now we are looking forward to having a better performance in the AFC Champions League,” said FC Seoul coach Choi.
“Beijing must be a very strong team to reach this stage of the competition. We are playing an away game, but we will still try our best. There is no weak side in the last 16.”
Unlike opposite number Stanojevic, FC Seoul coach Choi has stayed away from seeking the advice from a domestic rival after Pohang Steelers finished third behind Beijing in Group G.
“It is true that we beat Jiangsu, but Beijing are a stronger opponent and I won't underestimate them,” added Choi.
“I haven't talked to Hwang Sun-hong too much, but I know all the teams are more or less on the same level.”
Photo: WSG