Ulsan HD FC began their AFC Champions League Elite campaign with a 2-1 victory over Chengdu Rongcheng on September 17, 2025. The Korean champions secured a hard-fought three points in their opening group match, which kicked off at 18:00 local time. Ulsan started strongly and took a two-goal lead in the first half with two well-taken goals, showcasing their attacking quality. Chengdu Rongcheng, however, refused to capitulate and pulled a goal back early in the second half to set up a nervy finish. Ulsan managed the game well in the closing stages, controlling possession and limiting Chengdu's opportunities to find an equalizer. The win provided the perfect start for Ulsan in a competitive group, immediately putting pressure on their rivals. For Chengdu Rongcheng, the defeat was a harsh lesson in the levels required at this stage of Asian football, despite their spirited second-half performance.