The 2026 Chinese FA Cup served up a classic cup tie under the lights as third-tier side Yulin Mobei Miners welcomed second-tier outfit Suzhou Dongwu. In the end, class told: Suzhou Dongwu emerged with a composed 2-0 victory, advancing to the next round while the Miners' giant-killing hopes were dashed on a tense evening in northern Shaanxi.

First half: Patient buildup breaks the deadlock

Suzhou Dongwu, playing with the confidence of a side operating two divisions higher, controlled possession from the first whistle. Their patience was rewarded in the 32nd minute when a well-worked move down the right flank ended with a precise cross that forward Yang Ming nodded past the helpless Yulin goalkeeper. The Miners, known for their physical approach, struggled to create clear chances against a well-drilled Suzhou backline.

Second half: Suzhou seal the win

The home side pushed for an equaliser after the break, with midfielder Li Wei forcing a sharp save from Suzhou's custodian in the 58th minute. However, Suzhou Dongwu weathered the storm and doubled their lead in the 74th minute. A swift counter-attack caught Yulin out of shape, and substitute Wu Hao slotted home from close range after a deft flick from a corner had wrong-footed the defence.

Match statistics and significance

• Possession: Suzhou Dongwu 61% – 39% Yulin Mobei Miners
• Shots on target: Yulin 3 – 6 Suzhou
• Attendance: 6,820 at the Yulin Sports Centre

The result means Suzhou Dongwu progress to the next stage of the FA Cup, where they will face a higher-ranked opponent. For Yulin, the focus now returns to the league campaign, where they sit mid-table in the China League Two. The cup run, though brief, demonstrated the club's fighting spirit on a bigger stage.