In a passionate showdown on July 18, the 6th round of the 2021 Chinese Super League was played between Guangzhou and Chongqing Liangjiang Athletic. Guangzhou broke the deadlock in the first half with Yin Congyao's second goal, while Wei Shihao and Gao Junyi scored a goal each to take the lead. In the second half, Yang Liyu added another point to give Guangzhou a 3-1 victory, while Chongqing Liangjiang Athletic lost.
After the match, Guangzhou's manager Carlo Cannavaro commented, "We have adjusted our tactics and formation in response to the lack of players in the midfield. Luo Guofu's comeback performance was not bad, and the rotation rest is crucial for the team's long-term development. The return of Li Xuepeng and Luo Guofu was welcome, but they were not fit enough to play the whole game, as they had been out for a long time and the weather in Guangzhou was hot. Although the squad is not as strong as it used to be, we are united and will be able to overcome the difficulties."
Talking about the points conceded in the first goal, Cannavaro analyzed, "Due to the lack of preparation time for our three-back formation, which lasted only 10 minutes, and the players' adaptation to the position, the goal was conceded. Zhong Yi Hao was still unfamiliar with the right wingback position and was overly focused, resulting in an improper defensive position and failure to make up for it in time."
On the departures of He Chao and Wei Shihao, Cannavaro explained, "He Chao left the game due to cramps, he was active in the game and covered a lot of ground. Wei Shihao was substituted and I wanted to give him more time to get back to his best, after all he has yet to find his form after his injury last year."
As for Ickerson, who did not play in this match, Cannavaro revealed that today was to give him a rest.
