In a dramatic showdown on Friday, two-time defending Chinese Super League champions Shanghai Port were held to a nail-biting 3-3 draw by Qingdao West Coast in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province. This electrifying game was filled with early flubs, brilliant counterattacks, and moments that had everyone glued to the screen. ⚽
Qingdao West Coast got off to a blistering start with two goals in the first 19 minutes, capitalizing on mistakes by Shanghai's goalkeeper Yan Junling. In the 9th minute, Matheus Indio intercepted a loose pass to open the scoring. Shortly after, a defensive lapse saw Davidson set up Abdul-Aziz Yakubu, who doubled the lead and sent the home fans into a frenzy. ⏱️
Not to be outdone, Shanghai Port responded in the 25th minute when 19-year-old Li Xinxiang made a stunning break from the left, firing a shot that beat the defense. However, Qingdao was back in control just before halftime as Yakubu added another goal from a smart assist, putting Qingdao ahead 3-1.
The second half saw Shanghai Port stage a resilient comeback. Li Xinxiang continued to dazzle by beating defenders on the wing and setting up Gustavo for a header that narrowed the gap. In a pulse-raising climax, a well-placed cross from Feng Jin found Li once more, whose precise pass found Leonardo, leveling the score at 3-3 in the 83rd minute. 🔥
Despite the draw, Shanghai Port remains atop the CSL standings with seven points from three games. Meanwhile, Qingdao West Coast celebrated a historic unbeaten streak – marking their first time not losing in the opening three matches of a season. The thrilling encounter, along with other exciting results like Zhejiang Professional's 4-0 win over Wuhan Three Towns and Yunnan Yukun's 4-3 victory over Shenzhen, confirms that this season of the Chinese Super League is packed with unforgettable moments!
Reference(s):
Shanghai Port, Qingdao West Coast combine for six goals in 3-3 draw
cgtn.com
