Recap
The situation at Shanghai Shenhua continues to deteriorate. Last weekend they suffered another disappointing result, losing 1-2 at home against Shenzhen Xinpengcheng despite being clear favorites before kickoff. That defeat extended their winless streak to six consecutive matches (0-2-4), increasing the pressure around the team and coach Leonid Slutsky.
On top of the poor form, Shanghai Shenhua are dealing with serious squad problems ahead of this difficult away trip. Five players will be unavailable:
❌ Yang Zexiang (11/0) – suspended
❌ Manafa (11/0) – suspended
❌ Teixeira (8/3)
❌ Gueye (7/5)
❌ Saulo (1/0)
The absences of Manafa and especially Gueye, who has already scored five goals this season, are significant blows for a team already struggling with confidence and consistency.
Meanwhile, Qingdao West Coast are proving extremely difficult to beat. The hosts are unbeaten in their last ten matches, even though eight of those games ended level. While they may draw frequently, they have shown strong organization and resilience, particularly on home soil.