The Chinese Super League delivered an action-packed weekend with the Qingdao derby ending in a sensational 2-2 draw and Shanghai Port securing a decisive 3-1 victory against Shenzhen Peng City.
In the highly anticipated Qingdao derby, Qingdao Hainiu and Qingdao West Coast battled fiercely on home turf. The match kicked off with Hainiu taking an early lead in the 11th minute through Wellington Silva's stunning strike from outside the penalty area that found the top corner. West Coast swiftly responded just four minutes later, with Matheus leveling the score from a prime opportunity in front of the goal.
The intensity continued into the second half as Hainiu regained the lead in the 42nd minute when midfielder Jia Feifan capitalized on a goalkeeper error by Li Hao. However, Matheus showcased his prowess once more, scoring a powerful header in the 69th minute to equalize the match, which remained level until the final whistle.
Meanwhile, defending champions Shanghai Port enjoyed a commanding performance. Matheus Jussa opened the scoring in the third minute, giving the home side an early advantage. Brazilian striker Gustavo further dominated the game, adding two more goals to secure a comfortable 3-1 victory over Shenzhen Peng City.
Other notable matches included Shandong Taishan's struggle to secure their first home win against Henan, ending in a goalless draw after goalkeeper Wang Dalei was sent off in the 22nd minute, leaving his team to play with ten men. Additionally, Tianjin Jinmen Tigers and Meizhou Hakka fought to a 2-2 stalemate, while Zhejiang FC and Dalian Yingbo concluded their clash with a 1-1 draw.
Reference(s):
Qingdao derby ends in thrilling draw, Shanghai Port edge Shenzhen
cgtn.com