Shandong Taishan team suffered a setback in the first leg of the AFC Champions League 1 8 finals, facing strong opponents Kawasaki Frontale, although we lost 2-3, but this defeat did not make us lose confidence. On the contrary, it is more like an awakening, allowing us to see the infinite possibilities of a turnaround. Looking back at the first leg, we fell behind, but the second half was impressive: 16-1 shots, 7-0 corners, and a domineering 74% possession, which we were confident in.
We knew that the expedition to Japan would not be an easy trip, especially in the face of a must-win situation, but the entire Tarzan team showed indomitable fighting spirit. Wang Dalei and Li Yuanyi's words were full of determination, and their confidence and understanding of tactics painted a blueprint for victory for us. Yes, we have a chance to turn the tables around, and it's a real chance.
However, the reality is always challenging. The team is facing injury troubles, and the absence of Zeka, Wang Tong and Liao Lisheng is undoubtedly a big loss. But the good news is that Xie Wen's lifting of the ban gives us new hope. Our wing attacks will be more varied and deeper as a result. Although the lack of a pillar center is a headache for coach Choi Kang-hee, it also forces us to make more flexible tactical adjustments, focusing on positional battles to outwit the victory.
Compared to Kawasaki Frontale, we have our own advantages. Although they are strong opponents, they have just experienced the baptism of the Japanese Super Cup, and the distraction of fitness and focus is an unavoidable problem for them. We, on the other hand, are fully focused on the AFC Champions League. Coach Choi Kang-hee's strategy class is not only an in-depth analysis of Kawasaki Frontale, but also a spiritual inspiration for us. More than half an hour of tactical set-up will undoubtedly plant the seeds of victory in the hearts of the players.
The most exciting thing is that according to the latest rules of the AFC Champions League, there is no longer an away goals rule in the knockout round, which provides more possibilities for us to turn the tables around. As long as we can keep a clean sheet for 90 minutes and even win 1-0, extra-time will be our new battleground. And if we can win by two goals or more, then it is no longer a dream to qualify directly for the last eight.
Yes, we have never been afraid of challenges. This expedition to Japan was full of confidence and unwillingness. The spirit of the Taishan team is not only the hard work on the field, but also the indomitable determination in the face of difficulties. We believe that through the efforts of the team and the adjustment of tactics, the turnaround is not a dream, and victory is just around the corner. Taishan team, we have always been, never give up! Let's look forward to this AFC Champions League turnaround together, cheer for the Taishan team, and cheer for our own dreams.