Analyzing the hurdles for Shandong Taishan to advance, the top priority was to beat their opponents in the second round of the 90-minute battle and to score a goal in the extra time. The opponent's path to promotion is relatively smooth, only need to get a goal in the second round, can easily enter the eight strong.
Being in a situation where there is no way back, Shandong Taishan can instead take a more relaxed mindset. In Chinese soccer, where there is no tie-breaking rule, this mentality may bring unexpected surprises. As the only team in the Chinese Super League, Shandong Taishan is carrying the high expectations of their fans. Once the team achieves a turnaround in the second round, it will undoubtedly inject a shot in the arm for the slumping Chinese soccer.
For Chinese soccer, the play of the national team is certainly critical, but the performance of the Chinese Super League teams in the AFC Champions League also equally touches the hearts of fans. In recent years, the poor performance of Chinese Super League teams in the AFC Champions League has had an impact on the qualification of the Chinese Super League. If the Shandong Taishan team succeeds in advancing to the top eight this season, it will undoubtedly become a rallying cry to revitalize Chinese soccer.
