As the Chinese Super League (CSL) enters its final stretch, teams are tightening their grip on top spots and closing in on the title race. With just two rounds left to play, the league is heating up with many teams vying for first place.
The defending champions, Shanghai SIPG, sit atop the table with 67 points from 28 matches played. They have been consistent throughout the season, never dropping below second place. Their only real challenge has come from Guangzhou Evergrande, who are now in third place with 59 points.
However, both teams have had close calls recently. In one match, Guangzhou lost 1-0 to Beijing Guoan, while Shanghai were held to a 0-0 draw by Shandong Luneng. This has given other teams hope that they can sneak into the top three.
Teams like Jiangsu Suning and Wuhan Zall have also made their presence felt in recent weeks. Jiangsu, who finished bottom of the table at the beginning of the season, have climbed to fifth place with 48 points after winning four consecutive games. Wuhan, meanwhile, have won three of their last five matches and currently sit in seventh place with 44 points.
But it's not all good news for those chasing the title. Despite their strong performances, some teams are struggling to keep pace with the top two. For example, Tianjin Quanjian, who were once in contention for the title, have fallen out of the running with just six wins from 28 matches.
With just two rounds remaining, the race for the CSL title is shaping up to be one of the most exciting of the season. It remains to be seen which team will emerge victorious in the end, but one thing is certain: this year's title race is far from over.