Analysis of the Chinese Super League table
The dust has yet to settle on the 28th round of the Chinese Super League, but the table has stabilized. For now, the focus of our attention has shifted to points and rankings. The top three have already been decided, while the relegation of the bottom is still in doubt. In fact, the Super League title may be up for grabs in the penultimate round. Both Taishan and Hong Kong need to pick up points to secure the status quo.
Hong Kong lead the table with a five-point lead, followed by Taishan with a three-point lead.
Lumi international soccer Kan Dashan first headlines
Unless they lose two consecutive matches, the title will be hard to shake. According to Taishan's past performance, they are able to draw most of their matches with their opponents and have less physical exertion. The Hong Kong team has had a long break, while the Taishan team has played consecutive matches and has a clear physical advantage.
For Hong Kong, all that is needed is a draw with Taishan. As long as the defense is solid, there is nothing to worry about. Tarzan must win to keep the league in doubt and ensure consistent scoring. The title is not in doubt, but the second place is still in doubt. Theoretically, a win in Taishan's next game would seal second place, but the top three spots in the league are pretty much set.
Shenhua is expected to compete for second place, but the battle for third place is equally tight. While Guoan and Zhejiang still have a chance, Shenhua can lock up third place with a win.
Lumi international soccer Kan Dashan first headlines
In theory, Guoan and Sanzhen can catch up with Shenhua, but in reality, Guoan and Zhejiang are expected to catch up. The difference in points between the two teams is only one game. For Taishan team, they are currently 5 points ahead of Zhejiang team and 6 points ahead of Guoan team. It is difficult for Guoan team to catch up because the win or loss will directly affect the inferiority of Guoan team. For Zhejiang to catch up, they have to beat Shenhua in the last game so that Shenhua can't overtake them. Taishan's top three are rock solid, but there is uncertainty about second place.
Shenhua and Zhejiang must win their matches to secure a spot in the top three. Guoan's next two opponents are Shenzhen and Chengdu Rongcheng. Guoan is expected to win these two matches, and the competition for the third place in the league will become more and more intense, but it depends on the play of Shenhua. On the other hand, Taishan's draw with Shanghai will not change the ranking.
The relegation situation hinges on the outcome of the next round of matches, with the matchup between the Manatees and Dalian deciding who will succeed in relegation. Although Meizhou Hakka and Sea Bulls still have a chance to win in theory, the relegation successor in this round could be between Meizhou Hakka and Sea Bulls.
Lumi international soccer Kan Dashan first headlines
The Manatees will give it their all, but it is uncertain whether they will be able to score. Dalian relies heavily on chance goals and has a limited ability to score. The result of this match will decide who will succeed in relegation. In fact, it doesn't make much sense for Meizhou Hakka and Manatees to win at the moment. Therefore, the relegation successor in this round could be between Meizhou Hakka and Sea Bulls.
There is some suspense in the current standings beyond the champions and relegated teams, but many of the rankings are pretty much set and will not change.
