Shandong coach Choi Kang-hee
Choi Kang-hee, 64, head coach of Chinese professional soccer's Shandong Taishan, 스포츠토토 is furious after being treated unceremoniously by local Chinese media.
Shandong advanced to the quarterfinals of the Chinese Football Association (CFA) Cup with a 6PK5 win on penalties after a 1-1 draw against Beijing Guoan at Beijing Walkers Stadium on May 31.
The game was marred by off-field incidents. Beijing's home fans crossed the line with boos, and Beijing coach Ricardo Suarez roared and taunted Shandong's bench after the first goal.
After the game, Choi said, “In 30 years of coaching, I have never seen a coach come to the opponent's bench to make a gesture. I don't know if he was out of his mind, but he shouldn't have done that,” Choi said, politely expressing his disappointment, adding that “sportsmanship is meaningless if there is no respect for each other.”
Chinese reporters, however, seized on the story. “Is it respectful to criticize an opposing manager in public?” a Beijing-based media outlet asked, 토토 according to Sina Sports.
Choi responded, “You can't ask that question after seeing (Suarez's gesture) yourself. You can only be respected if you respect others. Do you really think there is nothing wrong with his behavior?” Choi replied.
A lengthy exchange between Choi and the Chinese reporters followed. Another Chinese reporter responded that he didn't understand Choi, saying, “At least it's not a soccer rule violation.”
In the end, Choi said, “I don't think you understand soccer rules. Even if you provoke players and spectators, you will be warned and cautioned. If you're a soccer reporter, ask questions like a soccer reporter,” Choi said angrily.
Still, the debate was not over. The Chinese reporters continued to ask questions with malicious intent, such as, “Speaking of respect, do you know that Shandong was the team that received the red card today?” and “Why did the Shandong player threaten the Beijing fan with a water bottle?” Choi said.
Choi's pleas to “just talk about soccer” were to no avail, 스포츠토토링크 and the press conference ended in chaos after officials restrained the Chinese reporters.
