Report by Wang Wei On the evening of April 26, in the 8th round of the Chinese Super League, Shenzhen New Peng City, after three consecutive defeats, defeated Liaoning Ironman 1-0 with a goal by Brazilian foreign player Wesley in the 6th minute, halting their decline and giving the opponent three consecutive losses.

"Talk therapy" relieves player pressure

Before facing Ironman, New Peng City had lost to Yukun, Tongliang Long, and Guoan. Three consecutive defeats combined with a record of 2 wins and 5 losses in the first 7 rounds since the start of the season placed considerable pressure on the coaches and players.

Before the match, New Peng City head coach Chen Tao stated: "The team's recent results have not been ideal, and the players are under some pressure. Before the game, we conducted psychological adjustments to create a relaxed environment for the players. Additionally, technical and tactical adjustments were made, hoping the players would be prepared both physically and tactically."

Chen Tao revealed that he reviewed previous matches with the players. Through video analysis, it was found that the team's overall performance had actually improved compared to before, but mistakes in handling some minor details led to disastrous consequences. "Through video analysis, psychological counseling, and refined requirements in training, we made the players understand: this is a necessary process for a team to develop to a higher level."

Player Hu Ruibao disclosed: "Before the match, the head coach and coaching staff chatted with the players, helping us release a lot of pressure so we could play with a lighter burden." After the match, when Chen Tao entered the field and celebrated the victory by clapping hands with each player, the sustained pressure was somewhat relieved.

New Peng City's recent situation was quite unfavorable, with the team suffering three consecutive defeats, while Ironman had two consecutive losses plus three rounds without a win. It should be said that both teams could not afford to lose this match.

In this match, New Peng City made only one adjustment in the starting lineup: center-back Benkovic, who was suspended in the previous round, replaced Shen Huanming. Other positions remained unchanged, with Xuan Zhijian starting as the right wing-back, captain Jiang Zhipeng playing as the left wing-back, Wesley, Benkovic, Owusu, and Kalchev starting, while Zhou Dingyang continued to wait on the bench.

After the match started, New Peng City's offense was good, creating significant pressure on Ironman from both wings. Just 6 minutes into the game, Xuan Zhijian's cross from the left wing created an opportunity for Wesley. The Brazilian forward stopped the ball and shot powerfully, directly breaking through the opponent's goal.

Subsequently, both sides contested more in midfield. In the second half, Ironman made multiple substitutions, with players like Chen Binbin and Yan Dinghao coming on as substitutes. In the final stages, Ironman scored a goal, but VAR ruled it offside. Ultimately, New Peng City defeated the opponent 1-0, securing a long-awaited 3 points.

After the match, Chen Tao said: "Over the past few weeks, the players have endured tremendous pressure, both mentally and physically. Under such a dense schedule, every match is very difficult. Winning the game, first of all, congratulations to them. This match was not easy; both teams' previous results were not ideal. In the opening stages, it was felt that the players were under pressure. Fortunately, everyone united together. Besides the result, what is even more pleasing is that this match achieved a clean sheet, and improvements can be seen in some small details. Of course, the team still has many issues that need adjustment through training in the next step."

Held firm in the final stages

When the match entered injury stoppage time, captain Jiang Zhipeng suffered a calf cramp. He gritted his teeth wanting to continue playing, but after treatment by the team doctor, it was found he could not continue. When he walked off the field limping, the entire audience applauded warmly, and Chen Tao also praised Jiang Zhipeng's fighting spirit after the match.

It is worth noting that after 80 minutes of this match, New Peng City's defense was once in peril. Previously, they had conceded goals multiple times during this period. To avoid repeating past mistakes, between the 72nd and 82nd minutes, Chen Tao substituted Zhang Xiaobin for Dai Weijun, Zhou Dingyang for Yao Junsheng, and Li Ning for Owusu, strengthening the defensive end. Moreover, he repeatedly shouted instructions, demanding the players on the field to stay focused.

Regarding this, Chen Tao stated he had long noticed this issue: "Conceding goals at this time leading to defeat indeed harms the team greatly. We have always emphasized that players must maintain concentration from the first minute until the final whistle, without any slightest relaxation. But often one or two wrong decisions or actions can cause all the efforts of the entire match to go down the drain. Therefore, the most crucial thing is to start from oneself, handling every detail well."

After adjustments, New Peng City held firm, ultimately winning by one goal with a clean sheet against the opponent, successfully halting the decline.

Up to now, in the 5 matches of April, New Peng City only obtained 6 points. Chen Tao is not satisfied: "Before the season started, it was estimated that around 8 points should be obtained; this judgment is relatively objective. From the match process, it is also like this; if some small details were handled better, there were actually full opportunities to gain points in 3 of the defeats. This is also a new challenge for us. From the first minute to the final whistle, players and coaches must remain clear-headed, including prompts on details are also very important; otherwise, it could likely bring serious consequences."