Two Guarantees in Hand! Dalian Yingbo Pushes Hard for AFC Champions League Qualification, with Many Untold Stories Behind the Scenes

In the 26th round of the Chinese Super League, Dalian Yingbo defeated Qingdao Hainiu 2-1 at home, once again demonstrating their strong home form. With this victory, Dalian Yingbo not only extended their excellent home record but also gained the initiative in their push for next season's AFC Champions League qualification through both league and cup competitions. As the team said, this match was not just a victory, but another demonstration of their strength and resilience.

Technical Analysis: Home Advantage and Tactical Execution

In the match against Qingdao Hainiu, Dalian Yingbo showed tremendous home strength. The number of home supporters reached 62,388, with an average attendance of 61,400, ranking 14th globally and making it the “number one home ground in Asia.” This passionate atmosphere was undoubtedly an important factor behind the victory, as player Luo Jing said: “Anyone would give their all playing in this kind of atmosphere.”

From a technical perspective, Dalian Yingbo displayed a high passing success rate and a well-organized distribution of running areas during the match, making full use of the home atmosphere and tactical execution. The team's coordination on the pitch and control of the match tempo allowed them to seize opportunities at crucial moments and eventually complete the comeback.

Player Stories: The Hard Work Behind the Scenes

It is worth noting that before this match, Dalian Yingbo had gone through a 78-day “tough schedule,” recording an impressive 8 wins, 3 draws, and 3 losses in 14 matches. In particular, during their five matches in the previous 17 days (four CSL games and one Chinese FA Cup match), the team remained unbeaten and was in strong form.

Behind these outstanding performances were the players' efforts and the coaching team's careful planning. On the training ground, players worked overtime, and training videos reviewed at 4 a.m. became part of their preparation for the AFC Champions League qualification push. This relentless effort has helped create the current Dalian Yingbo side.

Competition Impact: The Two Guarantees for the AFC Champions League Push

In the current CSL standings, Dalian Yingbo have risen to second place, creating the highest ranking achieved by the club since entering Chinese professional football. According to AFC technical rankings, China ranks fourth in East Asia, and the 2026 CSL runner-up can directly qualify for the AFC Champions League Two competition. If the FA Cup champion comes from the top four and also finishes as league runner-up, the league third-place team can receive the qualification as a replacement.

At present, Dalian Yingbo lead Beijing Guoan, Yunnan Yukun, and Qingdao West Coast by two points, and lead Shandong Taishan by three points, putting them in an advantageous position in the race for Asian competition. With their simultaneous league and cup campaigns, they clearly have a “double guarantee.” This positive situation has not only boosted the team's confidence but also raised fans' expectations for the future.

Future Outlook: Staying Steady and Writing a New Chapter

Next, Dalian Yingbo will use a two-week break for adjustments as they prepare for the final four league rounds. Their upcoming opponents include direct rivals Qingdao West Coast, making the importance of the match clear. The FA Cup semifinals are expected to be scheduled for late November, and if the schedule is moved to early November, it could affect the race for Asian qualification.

Regardless, as long as Dalian Yingbo maintain their rhythm and focus on themselves, their prospects of reaching Asian competition remain very promising. This CSL newcomer, in its second season competing in the league, has shown great potential and determination. As the players said: “We are extending ourselves at the feet of history, and the AFC Champions League stage is no longer far away.”

This season, Dalian Yingbo have become an undeniable force in the Chinese Super League. The team's future is full of hope, and the battle for AFC Champions League qualification will become their new goal. The two-week rest period is aimed at preparing for a stronger final push and writing a brand-new chapter in the matches ahead.