The competition in the Chinese Super League (CSL) is heating up, with the battle for the top four making waves again. Currently, any of the top eight teams in the Chinese Super League is expected to jump up to fourth place. Tianjin Jinmen Tigers have amassed 40 points for eighth place, while Changchun Yatai are three points behind with only 35 points. 19:35 on September 29th, Jinmen Tigers will meet Rongcheng at their home ground, a game that will be crucial to the fight for the top four. With only three points separating the two teams, a win could turn the tide and take over the fourth spot. Jinmen Tigers have been demoralized after defeating the defending champions in the last round.
Since their FA Cup exit, Tianjin Jinmen Tigers have learned from their mistakes and won two consecutive 1-0 matches to get back into the race for the fourth place. The last win was due to the opponent's rotation. Rongcheng is in a similar situation as Jinmen Tigers, neither of them is a strong team. However, Rongcheng managed to prevent Shanghai Harbor from winning the championship in the last round. Now both teams have won two matches in a row, and they are on a narrow road to meet each other.
In their first meeting last season, Tianjin Jinmen Tigers shook hands with Rongcheng 0-0. If Jinmen Tigers can get three points in this match, they will equalize with Rongcheng on points. In the last round of the Jinmen Tigers' match, Barton assisted Beric's header, which was his 8th goal of the season, and his goal-scoring efficiency has been improving, so he is expected to complete his contract renewal. Against Rongcheng, Zimmen Tigers will focus on defense and wait for the opportunity to counterattack.
Seo Jung Won's tactics were relatively simple. After Romulo's injury, Andrigo performed well. Rongcheng's offense mainly relied on two Brazilian foreigners: Andrigo and Felipe. Felipe has outstanding individual ability and strong body, often able to squeeze through opponents to complete a shot on goal. Zimmen Tigers' foreign center back Andujar will focus on Felipe and not give the opponents an easy chance to shoot. The Tigers will try to win and defend well.
Beric and Rosa had been the two water forwards at the beginning of the season, with Rosa currently underperforming Beric. Their contracts will expire at the end of the season. Based on the current performance, Beric is expected to stay in the team, while Rosa might be dropped. There are still four rounds left in the Super League, and this game will be the turning point. A win would instantly open up the race for the top four. Tianjin Jinmen Tigers are afraid of being demoralized by the loss. Head coach Yu Genwei has been anxious on the sidelines for the past two games.
There are a number of direct matchups in this round as the teams vying for the top four will go head-to-head. Wuhan Sanzhen will face Shandong Taishan, while other teams will also face relegation teams. The Jinmen Tigers are looking to retain their top four spot, with victory being the only goal. They may even bounce back to fifth place in the tournament. In addition, Zhejiang and Sanzhen have the task of playing in the AFC Champions League, which may affect their chances of competing for the top four. Barton is back in form and Xie Weijun is looking forward to returning. If these two players repeat their early season performance, Tianjin Jinmen Tigers' offense will be more dynamic. The team has had its ups and downs this season, due in large part to the sluggishness of its attackers.
