The AFC Champions League Group Stages have moved into the business end. With teams looking to book knockout stage places with a game in hand, or simply trying to stay in contention. Here are details on week 5 of the ACL2018;
Reminder that this season I’m taking a long streamlined approach to the ACL due to other commitments and therefore focuses just on Predictions, and only for games including K League sides. However I’ll take and like previews for other sites when possible.
AFC Champions League Group Stage: Week Five Fixtures & Predictions
Tuesday April 3rd 2018
Cerezo Osaka 2 – 1 Jeju United
I’ve sided with J-League side Cerezo Osaka in this one. Osaka beat Jeju at the beginning of the group stages 1-0 in Jeju and I haven’t seen any improvements from Jeju since. Sadly Jeju can’t afford to lost this one, as a defeat could all but end their knockout stage hopes.
Suwon Bluewings 2 – 0 Sydney FC
I’ve given Suwon the edge in this one. A big reason is that recently Suwon have steadied their defence and continue to look dangerous going forward with both Dejan and Waguininho looking dangerous. Sydney are solid away from home, however these 12 hour flights might be taking their toll at this stage of the competition.
Wednesday April 4th 2018
Ulsan Hyundai 0 – 0 Melbourne Victory
Based on recent results I’ve gone with a goalless draw in this one. Ulsan are currently bottom of the K League 1 without a single point from their opening 4 games. They’ve done better in the ACL, but I don’t see them beating Melbourne. Melbourne have never won away from home in the ACL, and I can’t see them bucking that trend on Wednesday evening.
Kashiwa Reysol 1 – 2 Jeonbuk Hyundai
I think Jeonbuk will go from the win here, even though they only need a point to secure a knockout stage place. With Hong Kong minnows (at ACL level) Kitchee visiting on the final group stage evening, I see them going for the full 3 points and trying to win the group. Kashiwa won’t just roll over, but Jeonbuk should be able to win this one.
Finally
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