In the 20th round of the Chinese Super League (CSL), Tianjin Jinmen Tigers beat Qingdao West Coast at home with a score of 2-1, and this victory is undoubtedly a shot in the arm for the team that has not won for three rounds in the league recently. However, while celebrating the victory, the team also exposed some problems, especially the tacit understanding of the five foreign aiders and the hidden danger of injuries, which became the focus of attention after the game.
Five foreign aiders complete, tacit understanding still need to grind
In this game, Tianjin Jinmen Tigers finally ushered in a lineup with five foreigners starting at the same time, which is an important attempt after their summer window adjustment. The addition of newcomer Diogo Silva made the team's defense more solid, and Škoric returned to the back position to form a double back with Hadas, adding more changes to the team's midfield. However, although each of the five foreigners played well on the field, the tacit understanding between them obviously still needs to be improved.
On the attacking end, the solid performances of Ademi and Compagno have provided solidity, but Hadas has not quite lived up to expectations at the back. Although he has increased in pulling back to get the ball, he has not had many opportunities to create an attacking threat with the ball directly in the middle of the field. In addition, the cooperation between Hadas and Ademi was not good enough, and they failed to pull each other and create chances for each other as they did in the F.A.C.A. Cup match with Changchun Yatai.
New recruit Diogo Silva, although he performed steadily, did not react in time enough to face Alan's turn and shot, showing his unfamiliarity with the opponent. Overall, the combination of five foreign aiders did improve the overall strength of the team, but the tacit understanding between them still needs to be honed through more games and training.
Injury concerns need to be addressed as victory comes at a small price
However, behind this victory lies a small price. Only 29 minutes into the game, the main left back Su Yuanjie went off due to injury, which undoubtedly brought a lot of pressure on the team's defense. Subsequently, newcomer Diogo was also substituted due to groin discomfort, and his injury needs to be further examined. Škorić was also replaced due to injury, making the team's midfield defense face a test.
In the last moment of the game, Wang Qiuming and Ademi, the two main players, also appeared to have cramps several times, which reflected that in the hot and sultry weather, the players' physical exertion was extremely great. The intensive schedule combined with the scorching summer heat further exposed the team's hidden injury problems.