In a tense pre-match press conference, team leader Cui Kangxi was sadly absent due to health concerns, while Dalian-born goalkeeper Wang Dalei was not present, with only Fernando, Peng Xinli and Buyurang grinding it out on their own. Meanwhile, Wang Tong and Jia Desong, who are back from injury, joined the full training squad.
With Cui Kangxi and Wang Dalei out of action, Shandong Taishan will have to endure a lot of pressure in the upcoming matches. Sichuan Jiuniu has changed its name to Shenzhen Xinpengcheng, and after winning the Central League title last season, the team is now in the top league. New manager Tato, who hails from Spain, has high-priced Brazilian foreigner Thiago Andrade under his command, while affordable Almenteros and goal-scorer Edouard Garcia (4 goals) have also been impressive. Hong Kong's version of Crow, An Yongjia, also contributed his first goal in the Chinese Super League. However, compared to these foreigners, local players seem to be slightly less well-known.
Shenzhen Xinpengcheng started the season with two consecutive losses, but then quickly adjusted with two consecutive victories. However, the next six rounds of matches were grainless. Now, the team is ranked 13th with nine points from two draws and four losses, only narrowly ahead of the relegation zone. Meizhou Hakka, Changchun Yatai and Qingdao Hainiu follow with 8 points. A slight mistake could see Shenzhen New Pengcheng slip into the abyss. Comparing the two teams' lineups, Shandong Taishan is undoubtedly better. So, in this home match, can Shandong Taishan continue to be strong and beat Shenzhen Xinpengcheng? The answer is about to be revealed.
