Chengdu Rongcheng from the Chinese Super League (CSL) cruised past Bangkok United of Thailand 3-0 in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League Elite qualifier at home, making the top Asian competition for the first time in club history.

Back when Rongcheng were established in March, 2018, the team made a series of clear goals including being promoted to the CSL within three years and securing qualification for Asian competitions. They finished in third place in the CSL in 2024, earning their chance to fight for a spot at the AFC Champions League Elite.

The hosts had the advantage from the beginning, but failed to create many chances in the first half which ended scoreless.

Chengdu netted first in the 68th minute when Romulo launched a corner kick for Yang Mingyang to head into Bangkok's goal, giving his side a 1-0 lead. Three minutes later, De Erjiaduo set up a one-on-one opportunity for Felipe against goalkeeper Patiwat Khammal with a long pass. The 33-year-old Brazilian striker shot into the right corner of the net, doubling the home side's advantage.

Felipe added his second goal of the night in the 83rd minute after receiving a long pass from Romulo. Though two of the opponents' defenders tried to contain him in the box, he managed to score again to seal the deal for Rongcheng.

A total of 41,713 spectators witnessed the historic moment for the home team, setting a new attendance record at the Phoenix Hill Football Stadium.