Ghana’s Prince Ampem hits hat-trick as Shanghai Port survive 10-goal thriller

Ghanaian winger Prince Ampem scored a first-half hat-trick as Shanghai Port edged Thailand’s Ratchaburi FC 6-4 in their opening AFC Champions League Elite campaign match on Tuesday.

Ampem produced a devastating 15-minute spell, opening the scoring in the 31st minute with a composed finish before doubling Shanghai Port’s advantage five minutes later.

The 28-year-old completed his hat-trick in first-half stoppage time, capitalising on another defensive lapse to give the Chinese Super League champions a 3-0 lead at the break.

However, Ratchaburi responded strongly after the restart, turning the encounter into a thrilling 10-goal contest.

Njiva Rakotoharimalala completed a hat-trick of his own as the Thai side repeatedly exposed weaknesses in Shanghai Port’s defence and threatened to complete a remarkable comeback.

Despite surrendering their commanding advantage, Shanghai Port held their nerve to secure all three points and begin their continental campaign with a victory.

Ampem’s first-half heroics proved decisive, giving the visitors enough of a cushion to withstand Ratchaburi’s second-half fightback.

The performance continues an impressive 2026 campaign for the Ghanaian, who has now scored seven goals and provided two assists across all competitions.

Ampem will hope to maintain his form as Shanghai Port pursue success in the AFC Champions League Elite and domestic competitions.