As we all know, the Chinese Super League (CSL) powerhouse Zhejiang and Thai Super League (TSL) giants Buriram United have been in the spotlight after a heated clash broke out during the AFC Champions League group stage. Even though the clash has subsided for the time being, both clubs and players are still at loggerheads with each other on social media. Each side seems to think that the other is the cause of the drama.
From a fan's standpoint, we desire a fair and impartial match and strongly condemn any form of violence at the venue. However, for all we know, the post-match clash may have stemmed from the provocative behavior of the Thai team and even contained insulting remarks.
In the face of this incident, the Chinese Football Association (CFA) quickly made an official response, in addition to condemning the violence, but also made it clear that it will fully cooperate with the AFC to carry out investigations. The statement of the Association revealed 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, to trace the source of the conflict.
From the Zhejiang team's perspective, the insulting remarks and provocative actions of the Thai players were unacceptable. This attitude of not being able to afford to lose, before the Thai team's national soccer team's come-from-behind victory over them on the road, once again in the AFC Champions League, certainly heightened their nerves.
It is foreseeable that both teams will face penalties from the AFC, especially those players and staff involved in the clash, with fines and suspensions inevitable. More importantly, Zhejiang's qualification for the AFC Champions League will also be put to the test, which is another reason for the FA to take a quick stance.
Here, I expect the Football Association to strengthen its communication with the AFC, not only to condemn the violent behavior, but also to conduct an in-depth investigation into the truth of the incident and impose severe punishment on those involved. The most important thing is to ensure that the qualification of the Chinese Super League for the AFC Champions League will not be affected, so as to prevent the Thai team from succeeding in their plot.
