Tianjin Quanjian’s big win against Hebei CFFC earlier today leaves three teams fighting for the third place that gives a ticket to the Asian Champions League qualifications.
Axel Witsel’s side was already behind chasing for an equaliser after ten minutes as Zhang’s header (10′) gave the early lead to the visitors.
Tianjin’s pressure was increasing by the minute and despite Pato’s huge missed chance from the spot to bring things level (53′), it was Zheng’s header after the Brazilian’s corner kick that tied things up after an hour of gameplay.
Cannavaro’s men knew that the next 30′ minutes were a last chance to stay in the third place hunt with two more match days left for the season finale. Pato sought and found retribution for the missed penalty and with an excellent finish at the 78′ minute got Tianjin fans off their seats to celebrate a what can prove to be a very important win (with a big comeback), vital to stay in the race for the third place.
Tianjin Quanjian are now a point behind Hebei CFFC with Shandong Luneng following.
Current table after Matchday No 28:
*one game less
