Shanghai Sunhwa Slutsky's Kangwon is strong as expected

Sep 16, 2025

 Shanghai Sunhwa Slutsky's Kangwon is strong as expected
◇photo courtesy of the Korea Professional Football Association



Shanghai Sunhwa coach Leonid Slutsky expressed regret over the defeat against Gangwon FC.

Shanghai Shenhua came from behind to lose 1-2 against Gangwon in the first leg of the 2025-2026 Asian Champions League Elite (ACLE) League Stage at Songam Sports Town in Chuncheon on the 16th. Shanghai Shenhua, who was competing to win the Chinese Super League but had recently shown poor performance, took the lead with Tesheira's first goal in the extra time of the first half, but bowed his head in the 8th and 18th minutes of the second half, respectively. It was a painful result for coach Slutsky, who played the game on the same day amid rumors of his replacement in China.

After the game, Slutzky chose to rotate from the existing lineup. Several young players were able to make their ACLE debuts. The result is disappointing. It's a pity that he couldn't keep his lead by one goal. It would have been a great opportunity for the players. At home, I'll make sure to win." Regarding the use of the rotation on this day "The next league game is very important. So I chose the rotation. In fact, our team is in a difficult situation in the league. Some players have stress on movement and have difficulties such as injury problems. I think the rotation was the most realistic judgment."




As for Kangwon, who he faced on the same day, "We analyzed the opponent's existing lineup. But rather than the opponent, the focus was on how we would form a team. It's my first time getting my feet in the lineup today. There's still a lot to organize. I think I have to adapt to the style of this competition. I think we should also think about how to respond to the opponent's replacement." "There is strength between teams in the Super League, there is strength between teams in the ACLE. You have to adapt to that aspect. Gangwon came out strong as expected. In particular, it was impressive to see him push even in situations where he could get down in the second half."

On the home game against Ulsan HD, Slutzky said, "We are aware that the K-League teams have different styles. Ulsan will play one more game before it plays against us. "(We will analyze that carefully) and construct the best team at home."





This article was translated by Naver AI translator.