As the Chinese Super League enters the era of rationalized management, some small and medium-sized clubs such as Chengdu Rongcheng, Tianjin Jinmen Tigers and Zhejiang team, although there is a gap between their overall strength and that of giants such as Beijing Guoan, Shanghai Seaport, Shandong Taishan and Shanghai Shenhua, have shown a competitive level that should not be underestimated. After the major Chinese Super League clubs succeeded in cutting operating costs, the lower-level teams have ignited a stronger passion for the Super League, and all levels of the league are moving towards a benign development track.
In 2023, Shandong soccer may have a bumper year. Shandong boasts three highly regarded teams in Shandong Taishan, Qingdao Hainiu and Qingdao West Coast. Among them, Shandong Taishan and Qingdao Hainiu are stable in the Chinese Super League. Although Shandong Taishan got off to a bad start, the excellent play of their midfielders and backcourt players put the team at the top of the table. They have 44 points in 24 rounds of matches, only 9 points behind the leading seaport team. Qingdao Hainiu, who are at risk of relegation and are currently in 13th place, are in hot form, undefeated in the CSL and the F.A.C.A. Cup, so they are in a good position to be relegated and have a chance to join hands with Taishan to reach the quarterfinals of the F.A.C.A. Cup.
Qingdao West Coast has been performing equally brightly, soaring up the ranks in the Central League, currently leading the league with 13 wins, 7 draws and 2 losses. The Shandong soccer team has surpassed its other rivals, and the new season is expected to be a great event: a grand event for Shandong's soccer team to participate in the Chinese Super League; and Qingdao's possession of two Chinese Super League teams. Recently, Qingdao West Coast has been in a unique form in the Central League.
Starting with a 1-0 win over Jiangxi Lushan in Round 16, Qingdao West Coast is undefeated in 22 rounds of matches, with 7 consecutive victories and a solid overall performance. With 8 rounds left in the China First Division, Qingdao West Coast has entered the countdown to the Chinese Super League. Currently, they are leading with 46 points, 1 point ahead of second place Sichuan Hainiu and 4 points ahead of third place Shijiazhuang Kung Fu. The competition is fierce, and the top two teams in Group A will directly advance to next season's Chinese Super League. According to an analysis by Soccer Daily, Qingdao West Coast is well-powered, thanks to strong support from the local government, with both Qingdao Hainiu and the Chinese First Division team receiving 10 million yuan in financial assistance. The West Coast New District and Qingdao City provide equal support, and if the Super League is successful, the prize money will reach at least 40 million yuan, enough to support the basic operation of the team.
