This comes after his Chinese Super League side came from behind to edge Bangkok United 4-3 on penalties in a keenly fought Preliminary Stage 2 tie to clinch their place in Friday’s group stage draw.

“With the change to the competition, we knew that it would be a tougher challenge but the players showed tremendous fighting spirit and fought until the end,” said Choi.

“While the draw is still to be done and a clearer goal can be set with key information known, our main target will be to advance out of the group stage.

“It is a huge challenge for us to participate in three competitions at the same time. We will need to focus on physical recovery and try to avoid injuries, only then can we achieve the results.”

The Thai side took the lead through Richairo Zivkovic but Valeri Qazaishvili equalised but the stalemate continued until the end of extra time.

In the shootout, Shandong grabbed the early initiative after Zheng Zheng converted his kick whereas Zivkoviv skied his.

Qazaishvili and Rungrath Phumichantuk both scored before Patiwat Khammai saved Li Yuanyi’s effort after Everton netted for Bangkok.

Zhang Chi, Muhsen Al Ghassani and Marcel Scalese all scored before the decisive final kick from Thossawat Limwasanathian soared over the bar to give Shandong the win.