Beijing Guoan beat Urawa Red Diamonds in AFC Champions League

BEIJING - Chinese Super League side Beijing Guoan claimed their third consecutive win in the AFC Champions League as they beat Urawa Red Diamonds on home soil 2-0 here on Tuesday evening.

Both sides have created some good opportunities in the first half and Urawa's striker Yuki Muto almost hit the target as his shot only whistled past the post.

Before the break, Guoan defender Zhao Hejing was limped off with injury and replaced by young player Li Lei.

Guoan continued to threat the rivals' defense in the second half. After missing some chances, Argentine midfielder Pablo Batalla opened the scoring as he capitalized on Urawa goalkeeper Shusaku Nishikawa's miss on punching before the substitute striker Yu Dabao doubled the lead.

Guoan's coach Gregorio Manzano commented that it was a hard-won game. "We had a tough start, but we got the game. It's the best game so far this season, and I am satisfied with all my players."

After three rounds, Guoan remain on top in Group G and are temporarily six points clear of second-placed Suwon Samsung Bluewings who have a fixture to play on Wednesday.

Guoan will meet Urawa again in the fourth round on April 8.