GANGWON, South Korea (Interstat) — An undefeated Vissel Kobe side will look to maintain its perfect start in the AFC Champions League when it visits Gangwon FC for a pivotal group stage match on Wednesday.

The Japanese club, sitting atop the group standings, brings a 2-0-0 record in the continental competition to South Korea. Across all competitions this season, Vissel Kobe is also 2-0-0. They are coming off a 0-0 domestic draw with Kashima Antlers on Oct. 17, which followed a commanding 3-0 away victory over Shanghai Haigang FC in their last Champions League outing on Sept. 17.

The hosts, Gangwon, are close behind with a strong 2-1-0 record in the Champions League. Their form was checked in a 2-2 domestic draw with Daegu on Saturday. Prior to that, Gangwon secured two consecutive 2-1 victories over Shanghai Shenhua in the group stage on Sept. 16.

According to the Interstat game simulator, the match is projected to end in a 1-1 draw.

The outcome will be crucial for both teams’ positioning as they navigate a congested schedule. Vissel Kobe’s next challenge is a Champions League home match against Ulsan on Nov. 5. Gangwon will continue its continental campaign on the road against Sanfrecce Hiroshima on Nov. 4.