Summary of the 2023 Chinese Super League Season: Champions Decided and Relegation Confirmed

The 2023 Chinese Super League season has concluded, with Shanghai Port securing the title for the second time in the league’s history after their 1-1 draw with Shandong Taishan. Despite the title already decided, there were still crucial battles on the final day of the season, including the fight for the final spot in the AFC Champions League 2 and the battle to avoid relegation to China League One.

In the Champions League 2 showdown, Zhejiang FC, Chengdu Rongcheng, and Shanghai Shenhua were in contention for the final spot. Chengdu Rongcheng sealed a convincing 3-0 victory over Meizhou Hakka to finish on 53 points. A dramatic match between Zhejiang and Shenhua saw Shenhua take the lead through Cephas Malele’s penalty, only for Nyasha Mushekwi to equalize. Leonardo’s late goal secured the win for Shenhua and the spot in the AFC Champions League 2.

At the bottom of the table, Shenzhen FC’s relegation was confirmed with a league-worst 12 points. The battle to avoid the second relegation spot came down to Dalian Professional and Nantong Zhiyun. Dalian needed a win against champions Shanghai Port to secure their CSL future, while Nantong faced Tianjin Jinmen Tiger. Despite taking a 2-0 lead, Dalian succumbed to Port’s late comeback, sealing their fate in the China League One.

If Dalian officially plays in the second tier next season, they will join five other Northeastern Chinese teams, setting up a Dalian derby for the first time in several years. The season concludes with uncertainties about the future, showcasing both surprises and expected outcomes along the way.

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Favian Ningrum

Hailing from Indonesia, Favian Ningrum is a passionate writer with a deep love for the AFC Champions League and an unyielding allegiance to Liverpool. Favian's articles seamlessly blend the thrill of continental competitions with his insights into the global footballing landscape. As an AFC aficionado and Liverpool fanatic, Favian's analysis goes beyond the surface, delving into the intricacies of tactics and the stories that unfold on and off the pitch.

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