It was a rollercoaster ride on Saturday in the Chinese FA Cup round of 16! Four teams – Beijing Guoan, Guangdong GZ-Power, Yunnan Yukun, and Qingdao Hainiu – secured their spots in the quarterfinals after some seriously edge-of-your-seat action. ⚽
In a head-turning showdown, Dalian Yingbo faced Beijing Guoan in a match that had fans gasping. Dalian went ahead just before halftime with a penalty by Cephas Malele, but Beijing’s Dawhan pulled off a stunning equalizer deep into stoppage time. The match stretched into extra time and eventually was decided by a nail-biting penalty shootout, with Beijing prevailing 6-5 after a 1-1 draw in extra time. Talk about drama!
Meanwhile, Guangdong GZ-Power delivered a solid 2-0 win at home over Tianjin Jinmen Tiger. Despite some early missed chances, the team kept the pressure on. With a scramble-breaking goal from Ma Junliang and crucial defensive plays, Guangdong shocked the top-flight side, demonstrating grit and tactical brilliance.
On another front, Yunnan Yukun showcased their strength in an away match against League One side Shaanxi Union. After taking a comfortable two-goal lead through efforts from Pedro Henrique and Oscar Maritu, they held on despite a late push from the opposition to clinch a 2-1 victory.
Qingdao Hainiu, even with some regular starters rested, set the tempo in their home game against League Two side Guangxi Hengchen. Early strikes from Jin Yonghao and Luo Senwen ensured a 2-1 win, proving that fresh legs can make a difference!
And the excitement doesn't end here! The final three round-of-16 matches are set for Sunday, including a highly-anticipated Shanghai derby between Port and Shenhua. Young football fans, get ready for more heart-stopping moments as this tournament heats up! 🔥
Reference(s):
Chinese FA Cup: Beijing Guoan among four teams advancing to last eight
cgtn.com
