Although Wuhan Three Towns secured their first league win of the season in the previous round, the team’s internal situation remains unclear. Acting head coach Deng Zhuoxiang has no intention of taking the role permanently. Currently, the club is in talks with figures like Zheng Zhi and Zheng Xiong, hoping to confirm a new head coach soon. Additionally, the club’s shareholding reform is still incomplete, and its financial situation remains far from optimistic. Rumors suggest that former head coach Martins chose to leave due to dissatisfaction with these issues.

In the last round, Three Towns’ striker Tudor suffered an injury and was substituted, reportedly needing a week’s rest and will definitely miss this match. Under these circumstances, local striker Zheng Haoqian is likely to start, but his ability and quality are average, making it difficult for him to make an impact against Guoan’s defensive system. Moreover, after Martins’ departure, Darlan’s status in the team has begun to waver. Currently, Three Towns rely on Shaol as the midfield core, with Wang Jinxian and Palacios leading the left and right wings, while Darlan has been relegated to a substitute role. Many players feel his abilities have been overhyped, and his slow playing rhythm significantly hampers the team’s attacking and defensive transitions. This is a major adjustment Deng Zhuoxiang made to the starting lineup after taking charge.

As for wing-back Wang Yi’s injury, he is expected to remain sidelined. However, in the last round, Deng Hanwen delivered an outstanding performance, scoring one goal and providing two assists, showcasing excellent form. Deng Zhuoxiang has positioned him alongside Wang Jinxian to anchor the right wing, resulting in Three Towns adopting a more right-leaning attacking approach.

In contrast, Beijing Guoan had a passive rest last weekend due to a league postponement, which may give them a slight edge in physical fitness. However, key defender Ngadeu is currently injured, and with a home match against Shandong Taishan this weekend, coach Setién has decided to leave him in Beijing to recover. Veteran Zhang Xizhe is also unlikely to play due to poor physical condition. As for Zhang Yuan, his recovery is progressing well, but he is unlikely to make the starting lineup.

Recently, Guoan’s biggest change has been in the attacking line. Influenced by certain factors, Zhang Yuning has started as a striker alongside Fabio, with Serginho shifting to the left and Cao Yongjing playing as the right midfielder. National team player Lin Liangming has also recovered from injury, and his speed and goal-scoring instincts make him a key weapon for Guoan. The team’s bench depth surpasses that of Wuhan Three Towns, giving Guoan a significant advantage if the match comes down to a second-half battle.

If Ngadeu is unable to play, Wu Shaochong, Spajić, and Fan Shuangjie are likely to form a three-center-back system, with Cao Yongjing as the right wing-back. Currently, Guoan’s coach Setién has little trust in Bai Yang, and young player Fan Shuangjie is expected to get more playing time. Fan is also considered the “prince” in the eyes of Guoan fans, enjoying high popularity in Beijing’s football circles.

In terms of overall strength, Guoan still holds the edge over Three Towns. With the home team likely limited to three foreign players, Guoan boasts four foreign stars—Fabio, Guga, Dawan, and Spajić—plus naturalized player Serginho, along with national team players like Zhang Yuning, Lin Liangming, Li Lei, Wu Shaochong, and Han Jiaqi. Their competitive state appears more reliable, making Guoan the favorite to win away.

Prediction: Beijing Guoan to win by at least one goal