Tarek Elrich says Adelaide United’s focus has already switched to their second AFC Champions League Group H match against Jiangsu Suning in China on Wednesday night.
Following the Reds’ 2-1 defeat to Melbourne Victory on Saturday, Elrich affirmed his side will be ready for a strong test against the Chinese outfit.
Elrich, who scored a stunning consolation goal against the Victory, admitted the Club will try and capitalise on Jiangsu’s lack of competitive matches.
“It’s not going to be easy, this competition is always hard,” Elrich said.
“You’re playing against teams that spend millions and millions of dollars on their squad.
“I think the good thing that will play in our role is we’re playing against a team that’s in pre-season.”
The dynamic full-back believed the travel will be arduous, but is confident if United employ the right tactics they can get something out of the clash.
Jiangsu won their opening Group H clash away to Korean team Jeju United 1-0, courtesy of a 90th minute goal from Brazilian international Ramires.
“Unlike the Japanese (game against Gamba), I think Chinese teams rely a bit more on their foreign players,” he explained.
“Whereas, I think Japanese teams are a bit more structured.
“So for us we’ll just stick to our game plan, it’s a short turnaround, long travel and it’s not going to be an easy one.
“But it’s definitely something as a team we know we can get a result over there.”
Adelaide United will face Jiangsu Suning in their second AFC Champions League 2017 group stage match on Wednesday, 1 March at the Nanjing Olympic Sports Centre. Kick-off is at 10.05pm ACDT.
