The underdogs are through! Henan FC stunned hosts Chengdu Rongcheng in a nail-biting Chinese FA Cup semifinal, winning 4-3 on penalties to book their first-ever spot in the final. ⚽️🔥
The match saw drama from the start. In the 32nd minute, Frank Acheampong raced into the box but rattled the left post. Later, a Henan corner in the 64th minute saw Lucas Maia's header smash off the upright. The goal posts were on fire! 🚒
Chengdu thought they'd snatch victory in stoppage time, but Felipe Silva's shot was brilliantly saved by Henan's hero goalkeeper Wang Guoming. He dived to stop Chow Tim's rebound too, taking the game into extra time.
Early in extra time, Timo Letschert appeared to head in for Rongcheng, but the goal was chalked off for a push. It all came down to penalties. After a miss by Romulo for Chengdu and a mistimed shot by Maia for Henan, Wang Guoming rose again to save Letschert's effort, sealing a 4-3 shootout win.
Coach Daniel Ramos and his side have made history! Next up, they'll face either Beijing Guoan or Yunnan Yukun in the final. Keep your eyes peeled! 👀🏆
Reference(s):
Henan FC beat Chengdu Rongcheng to reach Chinese FA Cup final
cgtn.com
