At 19:35 on August 30th, nightfall, the 2023 China Football Association Cup was in full swing, with the fifth round of the tournament having been upgraded to a quarter-final. In this marquee matchup, Chongqing Tongliang Dragons from China's second division will face Shanghai Shenhua, a strong Chinese Super League (CSL) powerhouse, at their home stadium, Tongliang Dragons Stadium. Before the match, a preparation poster with the theme of youth and bravery was quietly unveiled, stirring the hearts of fans.
On the poster, four Tongliang Dragon Warriors are valiant and face the challenge with their heads held high. Their jersey numbers are: No. 56 Tong Zhicheng, No. 57 Wang Shiqin, No. 55 Song Pan and No. 53 Li Zhenquan. These four U21 stars are the future hope of the team. Among them, Li Zhenquan, who was born on December 16, 2003, is the young leader of the team.
They have played more than 12 matches this season, with Li Zhenquan and Song Pan showing great strength with 5 and 2 goals respectively. Another player, Xiang Yuwang, who was born on December 18, 2002, is leading the team as captain. Despite his youth, he has already played 20 matches for the team, starting 19 and contributing 12 goals and 6 assists, making him the team's top scorer.
The power of youth is quietly rising in Chongqing Tongliang Dragons. Veterans Wu Qing, Zhao Hejing, Huang Xiyang, etc., and the young players are reasonably matched, constituting the team's powerful fighting force. Now, with 13 wins, 3 draws, 44 goals, 9 losses and 42 points, they are leading the Central B standings, and the momentum is rapid.
Facing the upcoming quarter-finals, Chongqing Tongliang Dragons are full of confidence. They will continue to show their youthful passion and vigor in front of Shanghai Shenhua. Shanghai Shenhua, on the other hand, has rarely played with a full Chinese class this season, despite having international players such as Wu Xi and Yu Hanchao. This sudden full Chinese squad will undoubtedly bring challenges to the team. Coach Wu Jingui and player Wu Xi both said they are ready for this tough battle.
This 42-point to 42-point top matchup will be broadcast live on the CCTV Sports Event Channel (CCTV5+) and more than 10 online platforms, presenting fans with an exciting soccer feast.
