Xingtai Wanshuai produced a dominant display at home, sweeping aside Benxi Qingfan 3-0 in the Chinese Football Association Member Association Champions League on May 21, 2026. The result underlined Xingtai’s growing reputation as a force in the regional tournament, while Benxi were left to rue a disjointed performance that failed to trouble the home defence.
Match Overview
The encounter, played at Xingtai’s home venue under clear skies, saw the hosts take control from the opening whistle. Xingtai Wanshuai’s high-pressing system disrupted Benxi’s build-up play, forcing errors in dangerous areas. By the half‑hour mark, the home side had already built a two‑goal cushion, and they added a third early in the second half to seal a comprehensive victory.
Key Moments
- 12’ – Opening goal: Xingtai left‑back Li Wei surged into the box and drove a low cross that deflected off a Benxi defender past the helpless goalkeeper.
- 28’ – Second goal: A swift counter‑attack released striker Zhang Peng, who rounded the keeper and slotted into an empty net.
- 53’ – Third goal (penalty): Midfielder Wang Lei converted from the spot after a clumsy challenge in the area.
- 68’ – Red card: Benxi midfielder Jiang Tao received a second yellow for a late challenge, leaving the visitors with ten men for the final stretch.
Tactical Story
Xingtai’s manager set up in a 4‑3‑3 formation that prioritised width and quick transitions. Full‑backs pushed high, pinning Benxi’s wingers back, while the central midfield trio—anchored by veteran captain Chen Yu—controlled possession and recycled play. Benxi Qingfan, who had hoped to sit deep and hit on the break, were unable to cope with the intensity. Their 5‑4‑1 shape became stretched, and they created only two shots on target all afternoon.
Standout Players
Zhang Peng (Xingtai Wanshuai – Forward): A constant menace with his pace and movement, he scored one and assisted another. His link‑up play with the midfield was the key to unlocking Benxi’s defence.
Li Wei (Xingtai Wanshuai – Left‑back): Contributed the opening goal and made several crucial tackles to snuff out Benxi’s rare counter‑attacks.
Goalkeeper Wang Hao (Xingtai Wanshuai): Kept a clean sheet with two routine saves, but his command of the penalty area gave the defence confidence.
Table and Season Impact
The win moved Xingtai Wanshuai into the top three of the group standings, strengthening their bid for a knockout‑stage berth. With nine points from five matches, they now trail the leaders by only two points. For Benxi Qingfan, this defeat leaves them rooted in the bottom half with just one win so far. Their goal difference also took a hit, which could prove decisive in a tightly contested group.
Xingtai’s next challenge comes away to a direct rival, while Benxi must regroup quickly to avoid slipping further out of contention. The 3‑0 scoreline reflected a gulf in class on the day, and suggests Xingtai Wanshuai are a side to watch in the 2026 Chinese Football Association Member Association Champions League.

