The China Youth Football League match on 4/4 between Dongcheng Sports School 16 Orange and Kickers Lan ended in a 3-3 draw. Both teams are accused of intentionally avoiding a victory to secure an easier bracket in the knockout stage, a strategy that involved a staggering total of six own goals.

The China Youth Football League match between Dongcheng Sports School 16 Orange and Kickers Lan raised suspicions of match-fixing. Photo: SCMP

Video footage of the match at Xiaojiahe Lvdong Tiandi stadium quickly went viral on Chinese social media, drawing widespread criticism from fans. On 10/4, the Chinese Football Association (CFA) announced a formal investigation. The Beijing Football Association (BFA) has already disqualified both teams from the league and banned several individuals from participating in local football activities.

The CFA stated, "Such an incident occurring in a youth league is particularly serious and has a significant negative impact." It added that it would collaborate with relevant parties to conduct a comprehensive investigation into management and disciplinary procedures. The association also affirmed its strong opposition to all match-fixing activities, emphasizing strict action based on the investigation's findings. Public opinion on social media expressed outrage, criticizing the coaches and team leaders. "It's absurd to teach children to cheat in competition," one user wrote.

According to the match report, Dongcheng scored the first own goal, which was initially considered unintentional. After leading one-nil in the first half, Kickers Lan scored three own goals in the second half. One video segment showed the goalkeeper almost motionless as a teammate directed the ball into their own net. When the Dongcheng coach protested, the referee stated that the match could not be stopped as the ball was still in play, suggesting they continue playing and lodge a complaint later.

Subsequently, Dongcheng also scored two own goals, bringing the match to a 3-3 draw. This result ensured both teams finished with two wins and one draw. Kickers Lan topped the group due to goal difference, while Dongcheng placed second. Under the tournament format, the first-place team would enter the upper bracket, considered more challenging, while the second-place team would go to the lower bracket with less competition. The BFA determined that the two teams had "seriously violated the spirit of fair play." Initially, the association disqualified both teams, issued a public reprimand, and banned four individuals for one year.

This is not the first scandal involving Chinese youth football. At the Guangdong Provincial Games in 2022, the under-15 final between Qingyuan and Guangzhou was also found to have been match-fixed after the team leading 3-1 surprisingly lost 3-5, showing numerous signs of lacking effort. That incident led to disciplinary action against 16 officials and the dismissal of local sports authority leaders.

By Hong Duy (according to SCMP)