Late equalizer denies Zhejiang Chinese Super League win, Yunnan march on

Zhejiang FC's Friday night clash in the Chinese Super League ended in a 2-2 stalemate against Henan FC, a result that leaves the home side grappling with their third consecutive winless outing.  

The match's narrative was set early. Just seven minutes in, Henan striker Felippe Cardoso sliced through the defense, carving out space before unleashing a thunderous effort that put the visitors ahead.  

Zhejiang's response was patient but effective. On the cusp of halftime, Franko Andrijasevic's cross found Tao Qianglong unmarked in the box, who made no mistake levelling the score at 1-1. Moments later, Tao struck again with a fierce shot, completing his brace and putting his side up 2-1 with a finish crafted once more through his link-up with Andrijasevic. This latest goal pushes Tao's tally to four for the season, a personal best in the CSL.

Yet Henan refused to buckle. The visitors ramped up their offensive pressure in the second half, carving out several chances before finally breaking through in the 87th minute. Bruno Nazario's probing long ball found Cardoso, who nodded it on to substitute Liu Xinyu. Liu's flick with his head leveled the match, snatching a precious point for Henan.

Elsewhere, Yunnan Yukun continued their ascent with a comfortable 2-0 home victory over Meizhou Hakka. Alexandru Ionita broke the deadlock in the 19th minute, and just three minutes into the second half, Ye Chugui doubled the lead with a composed finish against his former club, sealing the win.  

Yunnan now boast three consecutive wins, while Meizhou languishes in the gloom of a four-match losing streak.