Sydney FC has never lost to the Shanghai giants, despite the side from China's largest city boasting one of the biggest budgets in the Chinese Super League (CSL). 

In their previous two away meetings, Sydney beat Shanghai both times. First, in 2007 where Sydney defeated The Flowers 2-1, then again in 2011, where Sydney topped their ACL group with a 3-2 win in China.

While the CSL has grown in leaps and bounds since then, recent tightening over Chinese clubs' spending sprees mean Shanghai hasn't replaced the world-class talent they lost through the departures of Demba Ba and Carlos Tevez. 

Instead, former Newcastle United and Seattle Sounders frontman, Obafemi Martins, leads the line for Shanghai now. Once blistering with pace, Martins is entering his mid-thirties, although he still retains a threat from long-range.

While Giovanni Moreno and Fredy Guarin provide some South American flair, Shanghai have retained most of the side that finished seventh in the CSL last season, and qualified for the ACL via winning the Chinese F.A Cup. 

The Chinese club also have a less-than-impressive record in the ACL, finishing bottom of their group in 2007 and 2011. The only time they progressed to the second round was back in 2006, where disqualifications to Persipura Jayapura and PEA FC simplified their path.

After Shanghai, Sydney's next ACL clash is at home against Kashima Antlers on March 7, who drew 1-1 with Shanghai in their first group-stage match.