John Aloisi sacked after Chengdu Rongcheng lose CSL title

Final day results decided trophy

Dalian Yingbo secured the championship with five consecutive wins while Chengdu Rongcheng lost their last four matches. The two teams finished the season level on 52 points after Dalian defeated Tianjin Tiger and Chengdu lost to Shandong Taishan. Dalian won the title because they held a superior head-to-head record against Chengdu, having won both previous meetings between the sides. Huang Shan scored in stoppage time to seal Dalian's victory over Tianjin while Wang Ziming missed a chance for Chengdu in added time.

Club statement confirms coaching staff exit

Chengdu Rongcheng issued a statement confirming that John Aloisi and his entire coaching staff would depart the club immediately. Chengdu Rongcheng Football Club stated that Mr Aloisi will cease serving as head coach. This decision followed a period where Chengdu led by 14 points with five rounds remaining before losing all five subsequent games. Mark Rudan now serves as an assistant coach for the newly crowned champions Dalian Yingbo.

Aloisi expresses deep disappointment publicly

John Aloisi told local media via a translator that he felt great dejection and disappointment after missing the trophy. He apologised to fans who travelled long distances to support the team during their campaign. The club parted ways with him on Tuesday after he admitted they could see the trophy right in front of them but could not get it.