AFC: Attacking players in fine form
The AFC Champions League east region has reached the quarter-final stage, with four teams targeting a final clash with Persepolis of Iran.
The quarter-final draw was staged in the Qatari capital of Doha last Tuesday to produce two tough encounters, with Japanese Vissel Kobe set to take on Suwon Samsung Bluewings, while Beijing FC are to face Ulsan Hyundai.
The AFC website selected one attacking player from each squad that may make the difference for his team in the upcoming rounds.
Kyogo Furuhashi – Vissel Kobe (Japan)
The Japanese forward is considered one of Vissel Kobe's most powerful weapons in front of the goal as he grows into the team's top scorer domestically and and has also shown his worth on the continental level, with his brilliant partnership with midfield maestro Andrés Iniesta. The winger started two games in which he had seven shots and created four chances while he managed to net two goals in this campaign so far.
Bjorn Johnsen – Ulsan Hyundai (Korea Republic)
Despite not having been a regular in this season's K League 1 campaign, the Norwegian has stolen the spotlight since the competition resumed in Doha. The 29-year-old has been making the best out of his increased game time, providing Junior Negrao’s 89th-minute goal in their 2-0 victory over Perth Glory of Australia before netting four goals in two matches.
Alan – Beijing FC (China)
Asian football fans are aware of the Brazilian's quality and capabilities as he managed to net 11 times for Guangzhou Evergrande during the 2017 and 2018 editions of the AFC Champions League.
Since joining Beijing FC on loan, Alan has been delivering brilliant performances, scoring four goals in five appearances including the winner against FC Tokyo in the round of 16, depsite only starting three of these games and coming off the bench twice.
Kim Gun-hee – Suwon Samsung Bluewings (Korea Republic)
The South-Korean forward has played an important role along with other teammates to help the team through to the last eight. Kim, who is not a regular starter yet, is known for his good headers and bringing others into play. Having completed just 10 minutes of action prior to Suwon's must-win final Group G game against Vissel Kobe, Kim came on as a half-time substitute and headed home their opening goal just minutes later before the K League 1 side eventually secured the 2-0 victory they needed to advance.