Opportunity for Tianjin Jinmen Tiger? Chengdu Rongcheng's Three Forwards Suspended, Title Race May Extend to Round 28

Unexpectedly, Henan FC's all-out effort to contain Chengdu Rongcheng, resulting in a 0-0 draw, directly benefited Tianjin Jinmen Tiger. In the Chinese Super League Round 26 match, Henan FC and Chengdu Rongcheng ended scoreless, while the visiting team received yellow cards for as many as seven players. After the match, Zhu Yi of Transfermarkt China pointed out that Chengdu Rongcheng forwards Felipe, Wei Shihao and Baihelamul were all suspended after accumulating four yellow cards. The team will be without these three key forwards in Round 27, causing Rongcheng supporters to worry that their title dream may have to wait until Round 28.

From the points situation, Chengdu Rongcheng only need one point from their next four matches to secure this season's Chinese Super League title. They originally hoped to celebrate in Round 26, but Henan FC's determined resistance ended that plan. However, with Wei Shihao and the other two forwards suspended, Tianjin Jinmen Tiger may be able to take advantage of the situation against a team facing relegation pressure, and could even cause trouble for Chengdu. In that case, Rongcheng's title celebration would have to wait until their away match against Shanghai Port on October 18.

As the defending champions for the past three seasons, Shanghai Port will never allow Chengdu Rongcheng to celebrate the title easily at their home ground and will surely fight hard to stop them. Moreover, Shanghai Port are gradually returning to their best form and will not simply hand over three points. Chengdu Rongcheng's final two opponents are also not easy, especially Dalian Yingbo in Round 29, who are competing for second place, making it a tough battle. The final round away match against Shandong Taishan will also be a major challenge. In theory, Chengdu Rongcheng should be able to earn at least one point from these two matches, but the results remain uncertain and the title path is difficult.

Qingdao Hainiu have basically secured a relegation spot, while the remaining relegation places will be decided among Wuhan Three Towns, Tianjin Jinmen Tiger and Liaoning Tieren. Chengdu Rongcheng's suspension of three forwards has clearly provided unexpected help for Tianjin Jinmen Tiger, and they may have a chance to defeat Chengdu away in Round 27. In their next five Chinese Super League matches, Tianjin Jinmen Tiger are predicted to gain at least eight points, raising their total to 30 points.

Looking at Wuhan Three Towns, their situation appears less fortunate than Chengdu Rongcheng's. They are expected to earn only six points from their remaining six matches, leaving them with a total of 26 points. As for Liaoning Tieren, they have suffered four defeats in their last five rounds and were heavily beaten 0-5 by Yunnan Yukun in Round 25. These signs indicate poor form, and head coach Xu Zhengyuan appears unable to change the situation. Based on current performances, Liaoning Tieren will need to fight hard in their final five matches and are expected to collect no more than five points, finishing with a total of 30 points.

It appears that Wuhan Three Towns and Qingdao Hainiu have a high possibility of being relegated after the season ends. If Tianjin Jinmen Tiger can truly defeat Chengdu Rongcheng away in Round 27, they will owe thanks to Henan FC's efforts. In reality, Chengdu Rongcheng's title probability remains as high as 99%, but the coaching staff's performance could become a concern. The hope is that the players remain focused and do not cause head coach John to lose confidence.