Chengdu Rongcheng collapsed on the final day, losing a 12-point lead to surrender the Chinese Super League title. A 3-2 loss to Shandong Taishan, combined with Dalian Yingbo's 3-1 win, meant Chengdu finished level on 52 points but missed out on the Li Guozu trophy due to head-to-head record. John Aloisi's side picked up just one point from their last five matches, while Dalian collected 15 from 15. Both sides finished level on 52 points, but Dalian took the title with a better head-to-head record which included a victory over Chengdu in the penultimate game. The title-race collapse will go down as one of the worst in football history, especially with Chengdu's faltering finish under Australian coach Aloisi. Despite a point being enough to crown champions, they found themselves 2-0 down within 25 minutes. Felipe Silva replied, but Shandong restored their lead. Former Arsenal forward Wellington Silva gave hope late, but they were unable to find an equaliser. Dalian needed a win to secure the title, which they achieved through Yang Mingrui, Xadas's penalty, Liao Jintao's strike, and Huang Shan's stoppage-time goal.
Chengdu Rongcheng
Dalian Yingbo
John Aloisi
Kevin Keegan
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing