Cangzhou Mighty Lions emerged victorious 1-0 over Chengdu Rongcheng in the Chinese Super League on Sunday.
Coming into the 2024 season with high ambitions, Chengdu suffered its first defeat of the campaign.
Chengdu goalkeeper Jian Tao thwarted Oscar Maritu's one-on-one effort in the 39th minute, but faltered in the 83rd minute when facing the Congolese forward again, as his mistake allowed Maritu to easily slot the ball into an empty net for the winner.
In Sunday's other match, Tianjin Jinmen Tiger took the lead against Shenzhen Peng City after just four minutes, with Ivan Fiolic's direct free kick from the right piercing through the promoted side's wall.
In the 58th minute, Wang Qiuming met Yang Zihao's cross from the left with a header to double Tianjin's lead. 12 minutes later, Andrea Compagno seized an opportunity during a counter-attack and scored from close range.
Center-back Alex Grant had a deft finish from a corner in the dying moments, securing a resounding 4-0 victory for Tianjin.
US overdose deaths dropped in 2023, the first time since 2018
VOX POPULI: Contrary to forecasts, spring hasn’t quite sprung yet
WHO asks China for more information on spike in pediatric respiratory illnesses
China: Prime Minister very positive on ending trade disputes with China on visit to Shanghai
Socialite Jasmine Hartin enjoys beach snuggle with electrician hunk
Hong Kong bids farewell to independent bookstore Mount Zero
VOX POPULI: Shizuoka head’s sudden exit leaves question about his ‘talent’
China issues punishments over 'ugly' childrens' books
Kevin Pillar gets 1,000th career hit in Angels' win at Texas
VOX POPULI: ‘Dr. Slump’ creator made his mark with toilet humor
Election 2024: Biden and Trump bypassed the Commission on Presidential Debates
OJ Simpson death: Who was he, was he ever convicted, and why was he acquitted?