Chinese Super League: Guangzhou Evergrande in control as second stage of season starts
- Champions beat Hebei China Fortune 3-1 with late goals from Chinese national team stars Elkeson and Wei Shihao in Suzhou
- Tianjin Teda one step to safety after Frank Acheampong brace downs Shenzhen 2-0 in relegation placement group in Dalian
The 2020 Chinese Super League season resumed on Friday with the start of the two tournaments to decide the championship, alongside the AFC Champions League places, and relegation.
In the championship stage – where teams play knockout ties over two legs – champions Guangzhou Evergrande marked their intent with a 3-1 win over Hebei China Fortune in Suzhou.
Fabio Cannavaro’s side came back from Yin Hongbo’s 38th minute opener, which was rifled in from outside the area, with a storming second half performance.
Wu Shaocong levelled in the 68th minute, his powerful shot too much for Hebei goalkeeper Bao Yaxiong, before late goals sealed the win.
China international striker Elkeson put away a penalty in the 87th minute before his national teammate Wei Shihao netted in injury time.
In Friday’s other game – where the winners of the two legs will secure safety – Tianjin Teda met Jodi Cruyff’s Shenzhen in Dalian.