On December 1, 2023, Zhejiang beat Buriram United in a thrilling 3-2 soccer victory that not only put one point between the Chinese Super League and the Thai Super League, but also made waves on the Asian soccer map.
Despite the disturbing scene at the scene after the match, the AFC's punishment has yet to be revealed, but it could undoubtedly become a hidden danger for Zhejiang's campaign for the AFC Champions League next season.
The win was crucial for the Chinese Super League as the two sides are locked in a fierce rivalry with the Thai Super League in the AFC Member Association Technical Points Rankings. The Chinese Super League is currently ranked seventh in Asia, while Thailand is in eighth place, and in the East Asian region, the Chinese Super League is in third place, followed by the Thai Super League in fourth. The technical points rankings are directly related to the future allocation of seats in the Asian Elite League and the AFC Champions League.
Prior to the group stage, the Chinese Super League's technical score was equal to Thailand's, both at 6.233 points. However, in the fifth round of group matches, the Chinese Super League raised its technical points to 8.233 with two wins and one loss, while only Bangkok United of the Thai Super League won, leaving its technical points at 7.233. Zhejiang's victory certainly won a crucial battle for the Chinese Super League.
It is envisioned that if Zhejiang loses, the Chinese Super League will be overtaken by the Thai Super League in terms of technical points; if the match is a draw, the two sides will be even in terms of points. Therefore, Zhejiang's victory for the Chinese Super League, not only to save the line hope, but also in the future of the Asian Champions League seat in the race to occupy a favorable position.
