In a stunning display of resilience, Shandong Taishan mounted a dramatic comeback from a three-goal deficit to defeat Meizhou Hakka 4-3 in Matchday 3 of the Chinese Super League (CSL) on Saturday. The match, described by fans as a "rollercoaster of emotions," saw Meizhou dominate early with goals from Yue Tze-Nam, Yang Chaosheng, and Rodrigo Henrique within 34 minutes. But Shandong's Valeri Qazaishvili ignited hope with a stoppage-time strike before halftime, setting the stage for an electrifying second half.
Substitutes Li Yuanyi and Xie Wenneng revitalized Shandong's attack, with Brazilian forward Zeca scoring twice (54', 88') to level the match. Defender Gazal then sealed the victory in the 98th minute with a towering header from Li Yuanyi's pinpoint free kick. The win extends Shandong's unbeaten streak to two matches, while Meizhou drops to eighth place.
In other CSL action:
Beijing Guoan drew 1-1 with Chengdu Rongcheng despite a red card to captain Michael Ngadeu, leaving them winless after two games.
Dalian Yingbo secured their first top-flight victory with a 2-0 win over Changchun Yatai.
Shanghai Shenhua rallied to defeat Henan FC 3-1, signaling their intent as early title contenders.
The league continues to draw global attention as emerging stars and seasoned veterans shape one of Asia's most competitive football landscapes.
