Ismailov’s early goal after five minutes shocked Tianjin fans but Axel Witsel brought things level after he successfully converted from the spot leading into a 1-1 after 30′ minutes.
Changchun Yatai responded with two goals from Hungarian Szabolcs Huszti (45′, 79′) and despite Axel’s efforts (many shots blocked, one hitting the post), Tianjin left Haihe Education Park stadium empty handed, dropping into eighth place, nine points behind leaders Guangzhou R & F.
Cannavaro’s side face Guizhou Hengfeng Zhicheng away next on 13th of May.
