Recap
Shanghai Port enter the final round as the weakest side in the group, still searching for their first victory (0-3-4) and already mathematically eliminated from contention. Head coach Muscat has been grappling with a significant injury crisis, deprived of key players such as striker Leonardo, Tyias Browning, Wei Zhen, captain Wang Shenchao and several others who were unavailable in the previous round.
Their struggles are further underscored by a dismal continental record: Shanghai Port are winless in their last 12 AFC Champions League matches across seasons. The situation has been compounded during the transfer window by the departure of Brazilian key midfielder Jussa, further weakening an already depleted squad.
For Ulsan, the scenario is straightforward. They currently trail Gangwon in the battle for eighth place due to an inferior goal difference and must secure victory here to leapfrog their direct rivals.