**CSL Relegation: Guangzhou Earns First Point**
In a crucial match for their CSL (Chinese Super League) survival hopes, Guangzhou R&F managed to secure their first point of the season with a 1-1 draw against Shandong Luneng on Saturday. The result, while not a win, provides a much-needed boost for the struggling Tigers, who are currently battling to avoid relegation.
The match, held at Tianhe Stadium, saw Guangzhou start strongly but struggle to convert chances. In the 15th minute, a well-taken goal by Shandong’s Brazilian striker Wagner gave the away side an early lead. Guangzhou responded well, with their star striker Marouane Fellaini leading the charge. Fellaini, who joined Guangzhou in the offseason, showed glimpses of his quality but was often let down by the team’s inability to finish.
The turning point came in the 55th minute when Fellaini himself equalized the score from the penalty spot after Shandong’s defender Liu Yicheng fouled him in the box. This was Fellaini’s first goal for Guangzhou, and it sent the home crowd into a frenzy. Despite several attempts to grab a winner, Guangzhou couldn’t find the back of the net, and the game ended in a 1-1 draw.
Head coach Jordi Vidal praised his team’s effort after the match, stating, “We needed this point badly. It’s a step in the right direction, but we know we need to do more in the upcoming games.” Guangzhou now sits at the bottom of the CSL table with just one point from their first three matches.
The draw brings some relief to the fans, but the relegation battle remains fierce. Guangzhou will need to build on this performance and work on their finishing in their next matches to have any chance of avoiding dropping down to the CSL Reserve League.
For now, the Tigers can take pride in their resilience and determination to fight their way out of this tough spot. The season is far from over, but every point earned is a step closer to their goal.