AFC Champions League Semi-Finals Second Leg: Did Al Hilal Underestimate Rahimi? Ulsan Highlight Shandong's Deficiencies

The AFC Champions League semi-finals second leg matches continue early in the morning of April 24th. Al Hilal's first-leg performance saw them treat the top scorer Rahimi like any other player. Was it because the Moroccan striker had never played in Europe? Consequently, Al Hilal's rise to dominance was abruptly halted. Meanwhile, Marinos' forward Lopes, who excelled against Shandong, failed to replicate his form against Ulsan. Unlike Shandong, Ulsan's defenders were slightly weaker physically but matched Lopes in skill and stamina.

Al Hilal vs. Al Ain - Did the Saudis Ignore the Top Scorer?

Al Ain eliminated Al Nassr, a team boasting European stars like Mane and Brozovic, in the last round. Despite Al Nassr's star-studded lineup, their lack of cohesion was evident, making Al Ain's victory less surprising. However, Al Hilal’s more mature tactics were expected to pose a greater challenge to Al Ain. Yet, Al Ain secured a two-goal advantage in the first leg, surprising many.

Analyzing the first-leg match, Al Hilal’s primary issue was their blind high-line defense. With their backline near the center circle but unable to press high effectively, Al Hilal’s midfielders failed to pressure Al Ain’s players adequately. This allowed Al Ain’s forwards to comfortably push Al Hilal's defenders, with the midfield executing precise through balls behind the defenders, leading to offside traps and one-on-one situations. Al Ain's first three goals resulted from this strategy.

Despite Rahimi leading the top scorers' chart before the match, Al Hilal’s defenders seemed unaware of his threat, marking him loosely. This oversight allowed Rahimi to capitalize on the situation, scoring the opening goal and winning two penalties. Having completed a hat-trick before earning the third penalty, Rahimi generously allowed a teammate to take the shot, seemingly confident of securing the top scorer award this tournament. Indeed, with Mitrovic out due to injury and Talisca and Cressan's teams already eliminated, Rahimi’s path to the Golden Boot looks clear.

However, Al Ain is not without flaws. Their two conceded goals were due to defensive lapses. Al Hilal, back on home turf, could leverage their crowd support and tactical adjustments to perform at 30% of their potential. Rahimi might guarantee Al Ain operates at 10% efficiency.

Yokohama F. Marinos vs. Ulsan Hyundai - How is Ulsan Superior to Shandong?

After early exits in previous seasons, especially the shocking defeat to Johor, Ulsan Hyundai has approached this AFC Champions League campaign with cautious stability. Even at home in the first leg, Ulsan was content to concede early control to Yokohama F. Marinos, seemingly satisfied with a narrow 1-0 victory. Ulsan’s defensive solidity allowed them to hold onto the lead, with their counter-attacks proving highly threatening. All three of their shots on target had the potential to score.

In contrast, Marinos displayed none of the patience seen in their previous match against Shandong. Although they had numerous shots, most were wayward or lacked power, easily handled by Korean goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo. Only an early deflected shot posed any real threat to Jo's goal. Marinos’ best player was undoubtedly goalkeeper Powell, who, despite few saves, maintained high concentration and made two spectacular stops, keeping Marinos' hopes alive.

The biggest difference between Ulsan and Shandong is the movement ability of local players. Marinos’ Brazilian striker Lopes still held a physical advantage but struggled to find good shooting opportunities due to the timely blocks and disruptions from Ulsan’s defenders, gradually eroding Lopes' confidence. Against Shandong, Lopes had even showcased technical and agility advantages. Ulsan's standout player, Min-kyu Joo, was a constant threat to Marinos' goal, with his ability to hold up the ball in the box leading to Ulsan's goal in the first leg.

Given Marinos' lackluster form in both the league and the AFC Champions League, a comeback seems difficult. Both teams are likely to operate at 10% efficiency.

Al Hilal's Tactical Misjudgment

Al Hilal's defensive strategy in the first leg was flawed, leaving them vulnerable to Al Ain's well-executed attacks. Al Hilal’s high defensive line, coupled with insufficient pressure from their midfield, created gaps that Al Ain exploited expertly. The lack of recognition for Rahimi's capabilities allowed the Moroccan striker to dominate the match, demonstrating Al Hilal’s underestimation of their opponent.

To turn the tie around in the second leg, Al Hilal must tighten their defense and apply more pressure in midfield to disrupt Al Ain's rhythm. The home advantage could play a crucial role, as the passionate support at King Fahd International Stadium might inspire a stronger performance. Players like Salem Al-Dawsari and Odion Ighalo will need to step up, providing the attacking threat required to overcome the deficit.

Al Ain's Confidence and Vulnerability

Al Ain enters the second leg with a significant advantage, thanks to their clinical performance in the first leg. Rahimi's form has been a revelation, and his presence will be pivotal once again. However, Al Ain's defensive lapses in the first leg indicate they are not invincible. Maintaining concentration and resilience in defense will be critical to preserving their lead.

The tactical battle will be intriguing, as Al Ain will likely adopt a more conservative approach, focusing on counter-attacks to exploit Al Hilal's need to push forward. Players like Kouame and Bandar Al Ahbabi will be key in launching these counter-attacks, using their pace and skill to create opportunities.

Marinos' Struggles and Ulsan's Efficiency

Yokohama F. Marinos’ attacking inefficiency in the first leg highlighted their struggles against a well-organized Ulsan defense. Despite numerous attempts, Marinos’ lack of precision and power in their shots allowed Ulsan to maintain their lead comfortably. Marinos’ forward, Lopes, found it difficult to break through Ulsan’s disciplined backline, a stark contrast to his performance against Shandong.

Ulsan Hyundai’s disciplined and methodical approach has paid dividends. Their ability to absorb pressure and launch effective counter-attacks has been a hallmark of their campaign. Goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo's solid performance provided a reliable last line of defense, while Min-kyu Joo's attacking prowess has kept opponents on their toes.

The Path Forward for Marinos and Ulsan

For Marinos to overturn the deficit, they must enhance their attacking efficiency and maintain defensive solidity. They need players like Teruhito Nakagawa and Marcos Junior to step up, providing creativity and precision in the final third. Improved finishing and better decision-making will be crucial in breaking down Ulsan's resilient defense.

Ulsan Hyundai, on the other hand, will aim to replicate their disciplined performance. Maintaining their defensive shape and exploiting counter-attacking opportunities will be their focus. The tactical acumen of manager Hong Myung-bo will be pivotal in navigating this crucial match. A balance between defense and attack will be essential to secure their place in the final.

Broader Implications

The outcomes of these semi-final second legs will have significant implications for the AFC Champions League. Al Hilal’s potential comeback or Al Ain’s steadfast defense will set the tone for the final. Similarly, whether Marinos can overturn their deficit or Ulsan can maintain their lead will determine the competitive landscape of the tournament.

Al Hilal’s tactical adjustments and Al Ain’s defensive resilience will be key talking points. For Marinos, the focus will be on improving their attacking efficiency, while Ulsan’s disciplined approach will be a model for success. These matches exemplify the high stakes and tactical battles that define the AFC Champions League, offering fans thrilling and strategic football.

Conclusion

The AFC Champions League semi-finals second leg matches promise drama, tactical battles, and significant stakes. Al Hilal's adjustments against Al Ain and Marinos’ efforts to overcome Ulsan’s disciplined defense will be critical. These encounters highlight the strategic depth and competitive intensity of the tournament, providing fans with captivating football as the journey to the final continues.