Recap
Shanghai Shenhua have already been eliminated from the group stage of the AFC Champions League, posting a disappointing 1-1-5 record that includes four consecutive defeats. With the Chinese Super League yet to commence, competitive sharpness is understandably lacking. The situation has been further complicated by a turbulent transfer window, during which several key players departed РAndr̩ Luis (23/10), Hanchao Yu (20/6), Asue (14/4), Amadou (13/0), Yaxiong Bao (8/0) and Fulangxisi (4/0).
Motivation may also be an issue, as elimination has already been confirmed. Head coach Slutski is expected to rotate the squad heavily in this final group fixture against Buriram, likely using the occasion to experiment tactically rather than prioritizing results.
In contrast, Buriram enter the match as the undisputed leaders of the Thai League 1, displaying remarkable consistency throughout the campaign. Their home form is particularly imposing, with eight wins, one draw and just a single defeat, alongside an impressive +18 goal difference. A blend of defensive solidity and attacking efficiency has rendered them exceptionally strong on home soil. With a victory, they would mathematically secure progression to the knockout phase – potentially even earning home advantage in the knockout round, depending on other results.