SIPG boss hails Hulk as 'one of Asia's best'

SHANGHAI - Hulk was hailed by his manager as "one of the best players in Asia" after he buried a late penalty to give Shanghai SIPG a 1-0 victory over Kawasaki Frontale in the AFC Champions League on Wednesday.

In a tight battle between the champions of China and Japan, the burly Brazilian forward was the difference in earning the host all three points in its Group H opener.

Hulk, who barely featured for Kawasaki during a spell with the Japanese club in 2005-08, scored from the spot in the 89th minute after midfielder Hidemasa Morita handled in the box.