AFC Champions League: Lee Man can challenge ‘under pressure’ Urawa Red Diamonds, says goal hero Paulissen
- Mitchel Paulisson says defending champions have to prove they are still best side in Asia
- Bali United head coach Stefano Cugurra convinced Hong Kong side can spring upset after seeing his side thumped 5-1
Lee Man’s two-goal AFC Champions League star Mitchel Paulisson believes the pressure is all on illustrious opponents Urawa Red Diamonds ahead of Tuesday’s crunch play-off tie in Japan.
Paulisson, signed from SC Cambuur in his native Holland this summer, had a marvellous debut at Hong Kong Stadium on Wednesday, scoring twice in his side’s 5-1 preliminary round thumping of Bali United.
Stunned Bali head coach Stefano Cugurra was sufficiently impressed to suggest a repeat performance from the Hong Kong team could upset ACL holders Urawa next week.
Midfielder Paulissen’s only concession to Urawa’s traditional superiority was his acceptance of Lee Man’s underdog tag. A comprehensive dismantling of Indonesians Bali nevertheless encouraged the 30-year-old to contemplate the prospect of his new club joining compatriots Kitchee in the competition’s group stage.
“Urawa are Champions League winners, so we have nothing to lose,” Paulissen said. “We are underdogs and they need to win. I am not saying it is like a school trip for us, we want to get a result.