Tianjin Jinmen Tiger will travel to face Liaoning Tieren on July 12, 2026 in the CSL Round 18, likely lining up in a 1-5-4-1 formation and aiming to secure three points. The team’s recent form has improved, with goals and concessions balanced, and experts suggest a safe bet on a non‑loss.

Who will start?

Current reports list Tianjin Jinmen Tiger’s probable XI as: goalkeeper Yan Bingliang; defence of Sun Ming Him, Ba Dun, Wang Xianjun, Aitor Cordoba, Yang Fan. The midfield could feature Bruno Šadaš, Jaume Grau, Huang Jiahui, Alberto Quiles, with Guilherme Schettine up front. Liaoning Tieren may line up in a 1-4-1-4-1, with Zhang Yan in goal, a back four of Yuan Mincheng, Luis Ferreira, Chen Bingbin, Zang Yifeng, midfield anchor Li Tixiang, attacking quartet Jeffinho, Yan Dinghao, Kunimoto, Kwame, and striker Kamboleke.

How have they been performing?

Tianjin Jinmen Tiger finished sixth last season with 44 points after a ten‑point deduction. The new campaign started poorly, but they have lost only once in their last four games, most recently beating Shenzhen Peng City 2‑1. Their season average stands at 1.29 goals scored and 1.29 conceded per match, indicating a balanced side. Liaoning Tieren, champions of the 2025 First League, have won four of their last five top‑flight matches, scoring 1.41 goals per game while conceding 1.71, showing a stronger attack but a leakier defence.

What are the key stats for this clash?

Data shows 59% of Tianjin’s recent four matches featured goals from both sides, with an average total of 2.59 goals per game. Liaoning sees both‑team scoring in 53% of their matches, averaging 3.12 goals total. The only previous meeting this year was in March, where Liaoning won 3‑0 at home. Considering current form and goal trends, the match is likely to see over 2.5 goals.

How might the result unfold?

Experts note that despite Liaoning’s home advantage, Tianjin’s tightened defence and desire for away points make a non‑loss a sensible wager, with odds around 1.60. For those favoring goal markets, the over‑2.5‑goals option looks attractive. Either way, this fixture will shape the mid‑season race for both clubs, so fans should keep a close eye on the action.