Beijing Guoan delivered a gritty comeback performance against Shanghai Port, claiming a 2-1 victory in Thursday's Chinese Super League (CSL) clash. The win keeps Beijing unbeaten in nine matches and propels them to third place, overtaking their two-time defending champion rivals in a tense race for the top.
Shanghai Port struck first in the 40th minute when Liu Ruofan headed in Mateus Vital's corner, but Beijing responded within two minutes. A long pass from Dawhan set up Lin Liangming's blocked shot, allowing Fabio Abreu to slot home the rebound and level the score. The goal came at a cost for Shanghai, as goalkeeper Yan Junling sustained an injury and was replaced by Chen Wei at halftime.
Lin Liangming proved decisive again in the 55th minute, driving into the box and firing a curling strike into the top corner to secure Beijing's lead. Despite multiple chances to extend their advantage—including a glaring miss by Abreu and a late error by Chen Wei—the visitors held firm. Shanghai nearly equalized in stoppage time, but Hou Sen's crucial save denied Zhang Fanlin's header and preserved Beijing's hard-earned three points.
The result intensifies competition in the CSL, with Beijing emerging as strong contenders while Shanghai Port faces renewed pressure to defend their crown.
