Awkward Moment: China National Team Forward Xiang Yuwang Substituted Off After 25 Minutes, Prompting Reflection

On the night of September 2, in the Chinese FA Cup quarter-final, Chongqing Tonglianglong lost 0-1 to Yunnan Yukun. Although this was originally just an ordinary cup elimination, all attention focused on one person — Xiang Yuwang. As Chongqing Tonglianglong's captain, he was expected to show his ability in this crucial match, but his 25-minute substitute appearance became one of the most awkward moments of his career.

In the 53rd minute, Xiang Yuwang came on as a substitute and was originally expected to make an impact, but his performance on the pitch disappointed. During his 25 minutes, he had only one shot that went wide, and multiple mistakes among his four passes. During the conceded goal in the 74th minute, the entire sequence from his poor control to losing possession was captured by the cameras. More ironically, U23 China national team head coach Antonio was in the stands, having included Xiang Yuwang on the Asian Games squad list just one day earlier. This scene inevitably led to questions about Xiang Yuwang's performance.

The turning point of the match came in the 74th minute. Chongqing Tonglianglong's pass near the center circle was intercepted, and Yunnan Yukun's Yonicha immediately seized the opportunity to score with a left-footed shot, securing the victory. Liu Jianye then made a substitution decision to replace Xiang Yuwang, and after the match he explained: "The substitution was to break down a deep defensive setup and was not aimed at Xiang Yuwang's performance." However, fans were not convinced, and discussions about the awkward situation of the national team forward being substituted quickly spread on social media.

Xiang Yuwang is 22 years old this year and was once the undisputed core player of Chongqing Tonglianglong. His performances in the China League One were impressive, scoring 15 goals in 27 appearances in the 2024 season and 18 goals in 29 appearances in the 2025 season, winning the domestic top scorer award for two consecutive years. However, after moving to the Chinese Super League, his form declined sharply. According to Nano Sports statistics, he made 23 appearances in the 2026 Chinese Super League season, starting 16 times, scoring only three goals, including one penalty, and providing zero assists. These numbers contrast sharply with his outstanding performances in the China League One.

Xiang Yuwang's success in the China League One was mainly helped by foreign players' support and a less demanding competitive environment. In the Chinese Super League, facing stronger opponents and more complex tactical arrangements, his performances have not matched expectations. In particular, his movement and ability to challenge for scoring opportunities have been restricted, and he has failed to effectively use his speed and technical advantages, instead making mistakes at key moments that resulted in goals conceded by the team.

According to match replays, Xiang Yuwang's attacking performance was not ideal. His dribbling attempts were repeatedly stopped by opposing defenders, while his control and passing also featured frequent mistakes and inaccurate deliveries. These issues directly affected his confidence and the team's overall performance. After the match, a fan commented on social media: "He was a standout scorer in the China League One, but his current performance is hard to believe."

Looking at coach Liu Jianye's substitution decision, although he explained that it was based on tactical needs, the move appeared awkward in the eyes of fans. Being brought on and then taken off after only 25 minutes led people to question his role and status within the team. Moreover, with Antonio watching from the stands, he may also have been considering whether changes should be made to the Asian Games squad selection.

After this defeat, Chongqing Tonglianglong went winless in seven consecutive matches across all competitions, exited the FA Cup in the quarter-finals, and missed the chance to make a historic semi-final appearance. Xiang Yuwang's performance became the focus of attention. Although his outstanding displays in the China League One earned him the nickname "Chongqing Ronaldo" and the club extended his contract until 2029, he clearly still needs more adjustment and adaptation to meet the challenges of the Chinese Super League.

This match was not only a personal setback for Xiang Yuwang, but also a profound reflection point for Chongqing Tonglianglong's journey in the Chinese Super League. On the professional football stage, every performance by a player can affect future opportunities, especially in national team selection. It is hoped that Xiang Yuwang can regain confidence in upcoming matches, rediscover his China League One form, and allow fans to witness his ability and potential again.