Popovic proud as Aussies dethrone Kings of Asia

The A-League outfit, who were formed just two years ago, followed up their 1-0 win over the Chinese side in the first leg with a 2-1 defeat at the Guangzhou Tianhe Sport Centre that sent them through on away goals to a last four meeting with FC Seoul of Korea Republic.

Tomi Juric fired home a penalty to give the Australians a 1-0 lead on the night and that away goal ultimately proved crucial despite Guangzhou levelling the aggregate score through Alessandro Diamanti and Elkeson.

"I feel very good and proud," said a delighted Popovic. "My team is very new to this competition as we started just six month ago. But they have done a great job by showing resilience and fighting spirit.

"This was a very tough game for us. We travelled a long way to be here and we were exhausted. But at last we overcame all of our difficulties and I am very proud."

With their victory, the Wanderers became just the second Australian club after Adelaide United in 2008 to make it to the last four of the AFC Champions League. But Popovic insisted that he did not let his attention drift to his side's possible progression to the semi-finals while the match against Guangzhou was still ongoing.

"I wasn't thinking about the next round even when the score was 1-1 tonight," said the former Australia international defender.

"I was very nervous during the entire match especially when they kept pressing us. My heart was about to jump out.

"But although Evergrande dominated the game, I am still very happy that we qualified."

Western Sydney will travel to Korea to meet FC Seoul in the first leg of the semi-finals on September 17.

Photo: WSG