The absence of Liu Yang and Wang Tong from the crucial showdown at the top of Taishan was like a bolt from the blue, a shock to the team that cannot be ignored. It is reported that they did not travel with the team to Kawasaki, Japan, and missed the second round of the AFC Champions League 1/8 final. The change may be closely related to their physical condition. Wang Tong is still recovering from an injury, while Liu Yang is far from his best. Taishan will face a huge test if they lose these two core players in such a crucial battle.
The absence of Liu Yang and Wang Tong not only disrupts the team's tactical layout, but also in the competitive world of soccer, persistent injuries and poor form can cost players their starting positions. In the face of Taishan's emphasis on lineup adjustments and young player development, the team needs to maintain consistent play and sustained contributions in key positions. This pressure is particularly acute in the face of this reality, as they did not travel to Japan with the team. Wu Xinghan, a player who can play as a winger as well as a midfielder, and even has the ability to play as an excellent left back, is a strong defender and can face foreigners alone in the league. However, as a Shandong fan, I empathize with Liu Yang's absence.
According to internal sources, Peng Xinli also failed to travel to Japan with Shandong Taishan, which seems to indicate that he is pessimistic about the team's future. It is reported that the Taishan team has more and more players who are qualified to start, such as Li Yuanyi, Liao Lixiang, middle-generation player Huang Zhengyu, as well as young players Abdu and Jia Feifan, while Peng Xinli's strength is not outstanding. In such fierce competition, Peng Xinli's position was severely challenged. His failure to participate in this crucial AFC Champions League match seems to further confirm that his position in the team may be gradually marginalized. Combining these factors, Peng Xinli is unlikely to stay in the team next season. He may need to look for new challenges and opportunities. As for Peng Xinli, the direct player of old Cui's midfield may be leaving the team together with Bi Jinhao. 2022, Peng Xinli played 24 matches for Shanghai Shenhua, scoring 1 goal. 2024, January 6, Shanghai Shenhua announced that they will not renew Peng Xinli's contract. It can be said that Choi Kang-hee's decision to consider bringing in Bi Jin-ho and Peng Xinli was questionable. Although the two teams gave their all on the pitch and scored goals, there is still a gap between their overall strength and Shandong Taishan.
