The 28th round of Chinese Super League (CSL) matches has not yet come to an end, but the map of the table has almost stabilized. For now, our focus has shifted to points and rankings. The top three positions have been settled, while the bottom teams are yet to be locked in. In fact, the penultimate round of the title race may be long overdue. Both Taishan and Hong Kong need a point to consolidate their positions.
Hong Kong led the way with five points, followed by Taishan with three.
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Unless they are routed in two consecutive games, the title will be secure. Based on Taishan's track record, it will be difficult to shake their position even with a draw. SIPG will have a long break, while Taishan will have to play consecutive matches with obvious physical exertion, which will affect the final result.
SIPG only needs a draw with Taishan, so a solid defense is all that is needed to win. Taishan must win to keep the league in doubt while ensuring consistent scoring. The title is not in doubt, but second place is still up for grabs. A win for Taishan would theoretically lock up second place, but the top three in the league is pretty much clear.
Shenhua are expected to fight for second place, but the competition for third place is just as fierce. While Guoan and Zhejiang still have a chance, Shenhua need only one win to lock up third place.
Theoretically, Guoan and Sanzhen can catch up with Shenhua, but the point difference is only one game. However, Taishan is 5 points ahead of Zhejiang and 6 points ahead of Guoan, making it difficult for Guoan to catch up. For Zhejiang to overtake, they must beat Shenhua in their final game, otherwise Shenhua will stay in third place.
The Shenhua and Zhejiang matches are crucial and a win will secure the top three spots. Guoan's next opponents are Shenzhen and Chengdu Rongcheng, with little difficulty in winning. The competition for the third place in the league is fierce, but the final result depends on the play of Shenhua. A draw between Taishan and Shanghai will leave both teams unchanged.
The relegation situation depends on the next round of matches, the performance of the Manatees and Dalian People will decide who will succeed in relegation. Meizhou Hakka and Manatees need not rush to win at the moment, so both teams are likely to suffer losses in this round of relegation success or not.
In the current standings, apart from the champions and relegated teams, there is still suspense in the standings, but in reality many positions are pretty much set and will not change much.
