James Donachie admits it’s a tough challenge but is backing Melbourne Victory to curb the influence of Shanghai SIPG’s Brazilian stars in Tuesday night’s ACL clash in China.
Fresh from a weekend off in the A-League, Victory face a difficult test on Match Day 2 of the Asian Champions League at Shanghai Stadium.
Kevin Muscat’s side kicked off their foray into Asia with a thrilling 3-3 at home to Ulsan Hyundai, with Leroy George netting a brace.
But the task is set to be even tougher in China, with Shanghai boasting Brazilian internationals Oscar and Hulk in their squad, along with prolific striker Elkeson.
Donks is looking forward to a big challenge in Shanghai tomorrow night #MVFC #ACL2018 pic.twitter.com/6XrWWqhGiK
— Melbourne Victory (@gomvfc) February 19, 2018
Elkeson netted the only goal as Shanghai recorded a 1-0 win over Kawasaki Frontale in their Group F opener.
“Everyone knows about them because of what they can do,” Donachie said.
“We’ve seen in the past ACL’s what they can do, so we have to try and keep them quiet.
“It’ll be a hard job but we’ve got players that I think can do that.”
Christian Theoharous, a late substitute in last week’s stalemate, believes Victory have quality of their own that could hurt the Chinese Super League giants.
“Obviously there are massive players with massive profiles. Hulk played in Europe and even Oscar, playing for Chelsea,” Theoharous said.
“We’ve got the quality to match them and it’s just all about out-competing them and fighting.”
