As we all know, the fierce clash between Chinese Super League (CSL) powerhouse Zhejiang and Thai Super League (TSL) giants Buriram United in the AFC Champions League group stage has triggered a lot of attention. Even though the clash has subsided for the time being, both clubs and players are still at loggerheads on social media. In any case, neither side has accepted the other's mistake, with each insisting that the other caused the farce on the pitch.
From a fan's perspective, we are eager to see a fair and impartial match and strongly condemn any form of on-field violence. However, as far as we know, the cause of the post-match clash on the pitch probably stemmed from the provocative behavior of the Thai team, including some insulting remarks.
The Chinese Football Association (CFA) quickly made an official response to the incident, not only condemning the violence on the field of play, but also making it clear that it will fully cooperate with the AFC to carry out investigations. In fact, the statement of the Association implies two meanings: on the one hand, on behalf of the Zhejiang team and the Chinese Super League to apologize to the AFC, on the other hand is to find the source of the conflict.
From the standpoint of the Zhejiang team, some Thai players spoke out of turn, and some players even made provocative gestures. These extreme provocative behaviors undoubtedly reflect their mentality of not being able to afford to lose. After the national soccer team's previous come-from-behind victory over them on the road, winning again this time in the AFC Champions League may have made them doubly anxious.
It is foreseeable that both teams will inevitably be punished by the AFC, especially those players and staff involved in the clash, and fines and suspensions will be a foregone conclusion. What's more, Zhejiang's qualification for next season's AFC Champions League has also been affected, which is another reason for the FA to take a swift stance.
I expect the FA to strengthen its communication with the AFC and, while condemning the violent behavior, to conduct an in-depth investigation into the incident to reveal the truth and deal seriously with those involved. The most crucial thing is to defend the Chinese Super League's qualification for the AFC Champions League and prevent the Thai team from succeeding in their plot.
