Shandong Taishan are in a critical period of transition, but it is important to honor the veterans who have given so much to the team. Zhang Qi, the youngster who scored a brace and assisted in the Tianjin-Shenzhen match, has earned Cui Kangxi's full trust. Although his contract expires at the end of the season, he is likely to continue to play next season, and on August 31st, Shandong Taishan will face Beijing Guoan away in the AFC Cup, a match that is crucial for both sides, with a win or loss on the line, and Shandong Taishan will have to try to break the deadlock. In this FA Cup clash with Beijing Guoan, Shandong Taishan face the challenge of playing on three fronts, with the FA Cup being the most likely battlefield for them to win the title. With only a nine-point gap to Shanghai Harbour in the Super League and their opponents in poor form, Shandong Taishan still have a chance to win the cup, but who's to say they won't lose their footing at the crucial moment? In the AFC Cup, Shandong Taishan team is facing the powerful Beijing Guoan opponent, if they can break through the opponent, they will likely one foot into the finals. It is reported that the senior management of Shandong Taishan team attaches great importance to this game, and gave the order to win, for Cui Kangxi, this is a battle that can not be lost. Beijing Guoan, on the other hand, have been in good form lately and are eager to make a clean sweep in the FA Cup. Shandong Taishan will send their strongest lineup to face Beijing Guoan, with the center back pairing of Jia Desong and Zheng Zheng, and the left and right backs of Liu Yang and Wang Tong. These four form the backbone of Shandong Taishan's defense. The team will need to aim for goals early in the game so that time does not run out against them. Recently, the veterans have been impressive in their limited time on the pitch, and in the match against Tianjin Jinmen Tigers, they managed to score, and although the first goal was controversial, the second was a complete rout of the opposition. In the away match against Shenzhen, they also completed the shutout with an unconventional barb shot in the last minute. Zhang Qi's excellent performance may have prompted Choi Kang-hee to change his mind and consider keeping him in the team for another year. Zhang Qi's form is excellent and his attitude is what Choi Kang-hee needs to make an impact in every game. Therefore, there is a good chance that Zhang Qi will stay in the team next season.
