Guoan and R&F play out exciting draw

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The game on Friday night in Beijing was, indeed, a sign that the standard of play in the Chinese Super League (CSL) is improving with Eran Zahavi and Cedric Bakambu both saying after the match that they think the league is getting tougher.

More than 40,000 fans flocked to the Worker Stadium in the Chinese capital last night, with those in green having renewed optimism after a 2-2 draw with champions Evergrande, where they were 2-nil down, and overcoming a 1-nil deficit to win a 2-1 away win at table toppers SIPG.

Cedric Bakambu's late equalizer ignited the passion of the crowd and the team, and it also showed Roger Schmidt's side battling characteristics, as they came from behind yet again.

Eran Zahavi in action on the court. /VCG Photo

With both sides playing a positive brand of attacking football, last season's top scorer, Zahavi, could have snatched victory for the visitors. The reigning overseas MVP's brace showing why he has been one of the best finds of the CSL in recent years.

On the other side, Bakambu also put away two goals. The former Villarreal man taking his tally to seven in ten. Not a bad return for the man who is adjusting well to life in the league.

These two aren't typical of the stars that the clubs spend big money to bring in. Bakambu may be the most expensive African footballer but his price tag weighs far less than the likes of Oscar and Alex Teixeria. He and Zahavi will be hoping they can continue this kind of form, in a league that is becoming less about paychecks, and more about progress.