It was a night to remember for Henan FC as they booked their spot in the Chinese FA Cup final for the first time ever! After a tense 0-0 draw in Chengdu, the underdogs held their nerve to win 4-3 on penalties. 🎉⚽️
The match had it all: Frank Acheampong nearly broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute but rattled the post, and later Lucas Maia headed a corner off the upright at 64'. Chengdu Rongcheng fought back hard, with Felipe Silva's stoppage-time strike superbly saved by goalkeeper Wang Guoming, sending the game into extra time. ⏱️🧤
Extra time drama saw a perfectly placed header by Timo Letschert ruled out for a push, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Then came the shootout: Chengdu’s Romulo and Henan’s Maia both missed before Wang Guoming became the hero, saving Letschert’s effort to seal a 4-3 victory. 🙌
Daniel Ramos’ side now await the winners of Beijing Guoan vs Yunnan Yukun for a shot at lifting the trophy. For fans across South and Southeast Asia, it’s a reminder that magic happens when teams believe—just like the underdog stories we cheer on in our favourite dramas. Stay tuned for the final showdown! 🚀
Reference(s):
Henan FC beat Chengdu Rongcheng to reach Chinese FA Cup final
cgtn.com
