Beijing Guoan makes a statement as AFC Champions League league phase opens
Three clubs made their mark in the AFC competition's new format, with Beijing's 3-1 win over Pohang setting an early marker.
Beijing Guoan opened their AFC Champions League league phase campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory over Pohang, immediately establishing themselves among the group's stronger performers. The Chinese club's three-goal haul demonstrated offensive intent and clinical finishing.
Johor DT and Buriram played out a 1-1 stalemate in Malaysia, a result that leaves both Thai and Malaysian representation balanced on points. Daejeon kept their opening tighter, edging past Kyoto 1-0 to secure a narrow win for the Korean side.
The league phase format differs from knockout brackets; all results feed into a single final standings, meaning every match carries weight. Beijing's margin has handed them an early advantage, while Johor and Buriram share spoils and Daejeon's efficiency gets them off to a winning start. Early days remain, but these three fixtures set the tone.