What a finish for Changchun Yatai! Fans watched in disbelief as their team snatched a dramatic 2-2 draw this Saturday. They were playing at home against Qingdao Hainiu, a direct rival in the fight to stay in China’s top football league. It felt like a heist, truly.
The match started badly for coach Ricardo Soares’ side. Defender Zhifeng Wang received a straight red card just eight minutes into the game. Playing with ten men put Changchun Yatai at a huge disadvantage. Qingdao Hainiu soon took the lead through Chuangyi Lin in the 15th minute. Later, Kun Xiao doubled their lead in the 72nd minute, making it seem like the game was over.
But Changchun Yatai found some magic in injury time. The team refused to quit, even when facing a two-goal deficit. Long Tan scored in the 91st minute, giving them a glimmer of hope. Then, Afrden Asqer became an instant hero, netting the equalizer in the 95th minute. This incredible comeback keeps their dream of remaining in the Chinese first division alive.
This crucial point means Changchun Yatai, currently 15th, avoids slipping further down the table. Their next match is a tough road trip. They will visit Henan Songshan Longmen, who sit 11th in the league. Henan is in fine form, having secured three wins and one draw in their last four matches.
Meanwhile, the battle at the bottom intensifies. Meizhou Hakka, who are last, and Qingdao Hainiu, sitting just above the relegation zone in 14th place, will play each other. Changchun Yatai will definitely be watching that game closely. Every point matters in this tight race for survival.