View From Gongti: Beijing Guoan 2-2 Shanghai Shenxin

After a disappointing midweek loss in the Asian Champions League, Beijing Guoan were back in action last night and struggled to eek out a 2-2 draw against Shanghai Shenxin.

Much like Wednesday’s match against Bunyodkor, the Beijingers came out flat, made worse by a 4th minute Shenxin goal that shocked them. From there, the side pressed forward, but couldn’t find a goal in the first half.

Two changes at the half saw Guoan pressuring Shenxin in the second half, but bringing on Freddie Kanoute for Darko Matic left the defense out of sorts. It was the visitor’s that would score on a counter attack just past the hour mark to go up 2-0.

Bringing on Kanoute made an impact, though, as Guoan played almost the entire final 20 minutes in the Shenxin end. Kanoute scored on a penalty and two minutes later, he assisted on Andre Lima’s first goal. The capital side continued pressing, but an equalizer wasn’t in the cards.

While the side missed an opportunity to gain all three points against a weak side and go top of the table, it was an exhilarating match. Guoan now have a short turn around as they host fellow ACL side, Guizhou Renhe Friday night at Worker’s Stadium.

Read Brandon's full match report at WildEastFootball.