Changchun Yatai unveiled a significantly revamped starting lineup in their latest match, making six changes from the previous game against Shanghai Shenhua. As the old saying goes, “A new broom sweeps clean.” This reshuffle brought about a rejuvenated spirit, with goalkeeper Wu Yake trusted in goal and defensive import Ismailov returning to the starting eleven.

Promising midfielder Pei Shuai, who had not featured since the first round against Shanghai Port, was given another chance to prove himself. Meanwhile, winter transfer signing Tan Long made his first start. The dramatic lineup overhaul paid off—Yatai looked like a completely different side, particularly in addressing their previously exposed defensive vulnerabilities. Unlike the all-out attacking philosophy of former coach Lee Jang-soo, this new-look Yatai focused on solid defense as the foundation for any forward play. The first half saw Yatai in control, though their attacking output remained modest.

Still, the defensive improvements were clear, as they limited Henan Jianye to very few opportunities. In the second half, Henan’s coach Jia made several tactical substitutions in an attempt to shift momentum. Yatai responded in kind, and in the 65th minute, veteran Du Zhenyu replaced Pei Shuai. That substitution quickly proved decisive—just six minutes later, Du’s midfield vision set up a brilliant through pass from Huszti, which was finished clinically by Tan Long. The forward beat the offside trap and scored in a one-on-one, delivering Yatai their first win of the season.

With that victory, Yatai leapfrogged Henan in the standings to climb to 12th place, easing mounting pressure on the team. More importantly, the game marked the emergence of Tan Long as a reliable attacking force. With star striker Ighalo sidelined for several weeks due to an injury sustained in the last match, Tan’s performance showed he’s more than capable of filling the gap up front.

Born in 1988 and of mixed Chinese-American heritage, Tan Long spent years competing in the United States’ top-tier leagues before joining Yatai this January. In this match, he showcased relentless energy, using his physical strength and intelligent movement to great effect. On several occasions, he went toe-to-toe with Henan’s foreign defender Gomes and held his own, displaying the grit of a true forward.

Scoring in his first start, Tan Long has made a strong case for himself as a key player in Yatai’s quest for survival. If he continues this form, he could well become the driving force the team needs to turn their season around. As BD Cricket match trackers note, Yatai’s transformation is already showing promising signs of success.