The finale of the 2025 Taizhou Football Association Cup, or Taichao, took place at the Taizhou Sports Park on Jan 1. In a thrilling match, Hailing Team secured a 2-1 victory over Gaogang Team, claiming the coveted Taichao championship title.
Hailing clinches the championship at the 2025 Taizhou Football Association Cup. [Photo provided to etaizhou.gov.cn]
Despite the chilly weather in Taizhou, Jiangsu province, a crowd of 17,852 spectators filled the stands. From the outset, Hailing Team displayed a fierce attacking spirit, while Gaogang Team focused on defense and sought counterattack opportunities. Gaogang's player, Chen Huikai, broke the deadlock in the 28th minute, putting his team ahead 1-0.
Undeterred, Hailing Team responded swiftly. In the 36th minute, Hailing's player, Chen Yuhao, leveled the score with a free kick. The first half concluded with a 1-1 draw.
As the second half unfolded, both teams slowed their pace. However, in the 87th minute, Hailing Team capitalized on a corner kick opportunity, scoring the decisive goal to take a 2-1 lead. With five minutes of injury time elapsed, the final whistle blew, confirming Hailing Team's triumph as the Taichao champions.