In a landmark victory, Chengdu Rongcheng from the Chinese Super League (CSL) booked their first-ever AFC Champions League Elite berth by defeating Thailand’s Bangkok United 3-0 at Phoenix Hill Football Stadium.
Since their founding in March 2018, Chengdu Rongcheng set bold targets: reach the CSL in three years and compete on Asia’s biggest stage soon after. Their third-place finish in the 2024 CSL season earned them a shot at elite qualification, and they delivered in front of a record 41,713 home fans.
After a tight first half with few clear-cut chances, the breakthrough came in the 68th minute. Romulo swung in a precise corner that Yang Mingyang met with a powerful header, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead. Just three minutes later, De Erjiaduo unleashed a long pass that sent Brazilian striker Felipe one-on-one with keeper Patiwat Khammal. The 33-year-old fired low into the right corner to double the advantage.
Felipe completed his brace in the 83rd minute. Once again set up by Romulo, he danced past two defenders in the box before slotting home to seal the 3-0 result and ignite celebrations across the stands.
The historic win caps a rapid rise for the Chengdu club, showcasing the Chinese mainland’s growing impact on Asian football. As the team gears up for the Elite group stage, global fans will watch to see if they can translate this momentum into continental success.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
