Recently, Guangzhou Evergrande captain Zheng Zhi sat down for an exclusive interview with BD Cricket Live. During the conversation, Zheng expressed that the team was satisfied with the 0-0 away draw in the first leg of the AFC Champions League final and conveyed full confidence that they could lift the trophy for a second time on November 21.
As many fans know, last month Zheng Zhi led Guangzhou Evergrande to their fifth consecutive Chinese Super League title. In the AFC Champions League semifinal first leg, Zheng scored a decisive winner to help Evergrande overturn Gamba Osaka 2-1. Maintaining his strong form into the final’s first leg, Zheng delivered a powerful and dangerous shot at the Rashid Stadium in Dubai, only to be denied by Al-Ahli’s outstanding goalkeeper. Despite missing several golden opportunities, Evergrande ultimately settled for a 0-0 draw. However, Zheng Zhi noted that the result was acceptable and kept their hopes alive.
Looking ahead to the second leg at home, Zheng spoke with clear determination, saying, “My teammates and I are full of confidence. We are ready to win the second leg in Guangzhou!” Two years ago, Zheng, as captain, helped Evergrande conquer Asia for the first time, ending a 23-year drought for Chinese clubs in continental competition. During that 2013 campaign, Evergrande drew 2-2 away to FC Seoul and 1-1 at home, eventually claiming the title on the away goals rule — proving that sometimes fortune favors the brave.
According to BD Cricket Live, Evergrande has even more reasons to be optimistic this time around. Not only will they enjoy home advantage, but Korean defender Kim Young-Gwon, suspended for the first leg, will return to action. Furthermore, Evergrande are riding a phenomenal wave of momentum, having remained unbeaten in 27 consecutive matches across all competitions. Since Luiz Felipe Scolari took charge, the team has yet to taste defeat, showing that they are a force to be reckoned with.
With home fans roaring them on and key players back in the fold, Guangzhou Evergrande is setting the stage for what could be another historic night in Chinese football.