Dalian Yingbo Defeat Qingdao Hainiu 2-1, Stanciu, Luo Jing and Alimi Draw Attention

On September 5, the 26th round of the Chinese Super League began, with Dalian Yingbo hosting Qingdao Hainiu. Before the match, one side was an upper-table team aiming for an AFC Champions League qualification spot, while the other was a bottom-ranked team fighting desperately for survival. There was a noticeable gap in their perceived squad strength, but the match remained closely contested. Dalian Yingbo eventually won 2-1, and their No.10 Stanciu received an 8.4 rating, the highest score of the match.

The situations of the two teams before the match were very different. Qingdao Hainiu had collected only 14 points and sat at the bottom of the league table, five points away from the safety line for avoiding relegation. Their relegation pressure was extremely high, and every match required maximum effort to earn points. Dalian Yingbo ranked fourth in the league, level on points with second-place Beijing Guoan. Their squad value exceeded 7 million euros, while Qingdao Hainiu's total squad value was below 6 million euros, making Dalian Yingbo's squad advantage clear.

The match did not fully follow the expected gap in strength. After kickoff, Dalian Yingbo quickly launched attacks with the advantage of playing at home, and No.10 Stanciu scored first to give the hosts a strong start. Just as many expected Dalian Yingbo to take control of the game, Qingdao Hainiu launched a counterattack. Gong Ruicong provided an accurate pass, and Ye Boya calmly finished with a follow-up shot to quickly equalize. During the period when both teams were locked in a battle, Luo Jing unleashed a powerful long-range strike that flew into the corner of the goal, putting Dalian Yingbo ahead again. They then held onto the 2-1 scoreline until the final whistle.

The player ratings were released after the match, with Dalian Yingbo's No.10 Stanciu earning the highest rating of 8.4. As the team's midfield leader, he not only scored himself but also connected the team's attacking play, making him a key player in the victory. Luo Jing, who scored the winning goal, received a 7.8 rating, while Alimi, Mao Weijie and other players also delivered performances that met expectations.

Although Qingdao Hainiu lost away from home, the team showed strong fighting spirit. Song Long received a 7.5 rating, the highest among his teammates, while goalscorer Ye Boya earned 7.4, demonstrating the resilience of a team battling relegation.

After this match, Dalian Yingbo continued to chase the teams in the AFC Champions League qualification zone, while Qingdao Hainiu's relegation battle remained difficult. Every upcoming league round could have a major impact on their final survival outcome.