In a match that will be etched into Chinese Super League (CSL) history, Wuhan Three Towns overcame a three-goal deficit in the dying minutes to force a 4-4 draw against Beijing Guoan on Tuesday. The game showcased the unpredictability and drama that continues to fuel China's top football league.
Beijing Guoan dominated early play, with Brazilian striker Fabio Abreu scoring in the 3rd minute before assisting Zhang Yuning's 23rd-minute strike. Wuhan's Manuel Palacios temporarily revived home hopes with a spectacular 31st-minute long-range goal, but Serginho's header restored Beijing's two-goal advantage before halftime.
The visitors appeared to seal the result when Yang Liyu made it 4-1 in the 69th minute. However, Wuhan's Zhong Jinbao initiated an improbable comeback in the 87th minute, sparking a frenetic finish. Gustavo Sauer converted a stoppage-time penalty after Wang Gang's handball, before Zhang Zhenyang completed the fairytale recovery with a 100th-minute header.
The result leaves Beijing Guoan in 5th place, while Wuhan Three Towns climb to 13th in the nascent CSL season. Analysts predict the dramatic encounter could galvanize fan engagement across Asia's football markets.
