Shandong taishan, a club from China has caused a major stir by withdrawing from their final AFC Champions League Elite 2024/25 League Stage(East Zone) Matchday 8 against Ulsan HD FC.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed Shandong’s withdrawal, stating that the matter will be referred to the AFC committee for further action.
While the exact reason for Shandong’s withdrawal has not been disclosed, reports from Hotpot Football suggest it may be linked to the chaos during their previous ACLE match against Gwangju FC.
During that match, some Shandong fans allegedly displayed images of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and former South Korean President Chun Doo-hwan, sparking outrage not only from the Gwangju camp but also at a diplomatic level between China and South Korea.
Shandong’s unexpected withdrawal is particularly shocking given that the team, coached by Choi Kang-hee, was in a strong position to advance to the ACLE Round of 16.
A victory against Ulsan HD, scheduled for February 19, would have allowed Shandong to surpass Buriram United in the standings and qualify for the knockout stage. Had they progressed, they would have faced Vissel Kobe in the next round.
Following the withdrawal, Ulsan HD’s management has assured ticket-holding fans that they will receive full refunds.
Shandong’s exit has also significantly altered the competition landscape, particularly benefiting Shanghai Port, who now only need a victory over Yokohama F. Marinos in their final match to secure progression to the next round.
Credit Photo : AFC
