Congratulations! Another CSL Team Secures Survival as Former National Team Prodigy Leads a Stunning Comeback to Regain Control

On October 18, Beijing time, Shenzhen Xinpeng City finally ended their three-match losing streak with a thrilling 2-1 home victory over Beijing Guoan in the 27th round of the Chinese Super League. This crucial win not only lifted team morale but also boosted their points total to 23, widening the gap to the relegation zone to five points. With only three matches remaining in the season, barring any catastrophic collapse, Shenzhen has essentially secured their top-flight status. Much of the credit goes to interim head coach Chen Tao, whose leadership has reignited the team’s fighting spirit.

Under former manager Muñoz, Shenzhen struggled with a dismal record of two wins and eight losses, and their recent three-game skid had completely erased their early-season advantage in the relegation race. As Meizhou, Qingdao Hainiu, and Changchun Yatai closed in from behind, the club had no choice but to make a coaching change. Facing a daunting final stretch against Guoan, Wuhan Three Towns, Shanghai Shenhua, and Chengdu Rongcheng, few believed the team could survive. Muñoz was dismissed, and former Chinese international Chen Tao was thrust into the hot seat with little time to turn things around.

What followed was nothing short of remarkable. Despite inheriting a team in disarray and a brutal fixture list, Chen Tao inspired his players to fight with renewed passion and belief. Against all odds, Shenzhen stunned Beijing Guoan at home, reclaiming control of their own destiny and reigniting hopes among their loyal supporters.

Following this victory, Shenzhen Xinpeng City now sits on 23 points, while both Changchun Yatai and Qingdao Hainiu remain stuck at 18. Given that Shenzhen holds head-to-head advantages over both rivals, Yatai and Hainiu would need at least two wins to surpass them — a tall order with only a handful of games left. For bottom-placed Hainiu, who have just three matches remaining, the challenge borders on impossible. With momentum restored and confidence soaring, Shenzhen Xinpeng City’s great escape now looks all but complete.