Qingdao Hainiu — Shanghai Port : Match Preview and Prediction for October 17,2025

Qingdao Hainiu’s Defensive Approach

Let’s analyze the home side. Qingdao Hainiu typically favors a defensive style of play, particularly when performing at home. The statistics clearly support this observation: in 17 out of their last 20 home fixtures, the total goals scored did not exceed 3.5.

Struggles in Attack and League Position

The team’s 15th position in the league table is no coincidence. They possess one of the weakest attacking units in the championship, as evidenced by their scoring record: second-to-last with only 25 goals in 26 matches. At home, this trend is even more pronounced, with Qingdao failing to score more than once in 9 of their 13 fixtures.

Recent Performance and Key Absences

Their previous match against Meizhou Hakka, which ended in a 0-1 defeat, perfectly illustrates their persistent issues. Despite dominating possession with 69% and attempting 17 shots, only 3 were on target. This indicates a significant lack of efficiency in the final third. Furthermore, the upcoming game will see them without the suspended Nikola Radmanovac, a crucial defender, which will likely compel the team to adopt an even more defensive stance to mitigate his absence.

Shanghai Port: Coaching Uncertainty

Moving on to the league leaders. On paper, Shanghai Port appears to be a formidable goal-scoring machine, but their current circumstances present a different picture. Head coach Kevin Muscat is reportedly already halfway out the door, with strong links to Scotland’s Rangers. News outlets are widely reporting on his ongoing negotiations and the club’s preparations for “contingency plans.” Such uncertainty surrounding the coach, especially during a title race, inevitably impacts the team’s performance and morale.

Key Attacking Absences for Shanghai Port

However, the primary concern lies in their significant personnel losses upfront. Gustavo, a key striker with 10 goals this season, is sidelined due to injury. Additionally, forward Lei Wu is also out of action. These absences deal a severe blow to the team’s offensive capabilities, which were largely built around these influential players.

Recent Performance and Attacking Woes

Their recent AFC Champions League match against Sanfrecce Hiroshima, which ended in a 1-1 draw, further substantiates these issues. Shanghai Port’s attacking statistics in that game were dismal: only 7 shots in total, with just 2 on target, and an xG (expected goals) metric of a meager 0.40. This is not an isolated incident but a direct consequence of their current predicament.