On October 24, Beijing time, in the first leg of the FA Cup quarterfinals, Shenhua defeated Shenzhen 1-0. At the post-match press conference, Shenhua coach Mao Yijun said that although the first leg was won, the second leg was still crucial for Shenhua, and explained why Cao Yunding did not appear.
For the result of the game, Mao Yijun expressed satisfaction, "We defended well, the attacking teams had opportunities, but we grasped it, but there are more important second-leg matches." ”
For Cao Yunding's failure to appear, Mao Yijun revealed that Cao Yunding was currently injured, and in order to protect him, he would not let Cao Yunding take risks until he was forced to do so.