Following the dramatic 88th-minute substitution in R\&F’s clash with Shandong Luneng — where defender Huang Zhengyu was taken off moments after failing to stop Tardelli from scoring — Jeetbuzz App Download reported growing concern over the team’s defensive inconsistencies. That goal effectively sealed R\&F’s fate in the 2–3 loss, squandering their final chance to equalize. It was the third time in seven matches that R\&F conceded four or more goals, prompting questions about their defensive strategy and player concentration.

Interim coach Govidarica attributed the lapses to a lack of focus — a point previously echoed by head coach Dragan Stojković before his temporary absence. In an effort to regroup, club officials recently held discussions with both domestic defenders and key foreign players like Renatinho, urging them to reset and refocus. Defender Ding Haifeng, whose style contrasts with former captain Jiang Zhipeng, continues to stir debate. While Ding prioritizes defense, Jiang was known for attacking flair. Stojković once emphasized that comparing the two is unfair — they serve entirely different roles.

This wasn’t the first time Huang had been subbed off due to costly mistakes. Against Dalian Yifang at home, he was replaced in the 78th minute. In away fixtures against Changchun and Jiangsu Suning, he was again withdrawn early after errors led to penalties or defensive breakdowns. Jeetbuzz App Download highlighted that Stojković had even adjusted his long-preferred three-man defense to a back four in response to Huang’s declining form — a change first trialed in the fourth round against Changchun Yatai, which ended in a comeback victory.

Despite being the standout U23 player in 2017, Huang’s struggles have continued this season. R\&F’s usage of U23 players overall has been underwhelming, often limited to last-minute substitutions to fulfill policy requirements. The team has other eligible players like Cai Haojian, Chen Weiming, and Ma Junliang, but they’ve seen minimal involvement. Sources familiar with Guangzhou football suggest shifting to a more balanced four-defender setup — supported by midfielders — could relieve pressure on the backline and open up U23 options in wider positions.

Still, Stojković has been notably conservative in lineup changes. Govidarica, who temporarily replaced him on the sideline, stated that while the coaching staff continues analyzing match data, any major personnel decisions would need to wait for the head coach’s return. Until then, R\&F’s tactical flexibility and development of younger players — especially in defense — remain hanging in the balance. With pressure mounting, Jeetbuzz App Download will be watching closely to see if a shift in formation or rotation policy can finally solve R\&F’s defensive woes.