Qilu Football Super League opens with thriller in Yantai

On the greenfield, players fight fiercely and push hard every minute. [Photo/Dazhong News]

The first match of Yantai Division of the Shandong Qilu Football Super League kicked off on the evening of Sept 20 at Yantai Sports Park where the Yantai team faced off against Jinan Licheng Chengfa Quansheng team in a thrilling home game. Cheers and shouts from passionate fans filled the stadium throughout the night.

The match was intense right from the start. The Jinan team pressed early, but Yantai's defense held firm. The home side electrified the crowd in the 23rd minute by scoring the division's first goal. Shortly after, goalkeeper Wang Hai made a crucial save, sparking another wave of applause. 

Although Yantai eventually fell 1-3 to the visitors, the loss did little to cool fans' enthusiasm. After the final whistle, children practiced shooting on the field, and young fans excitedly shared highlights online. Outside the stadium, excited crowds gathered around food stalls, still buzzing about the game's best moments.

Made up of 30 players aged 18 to 47 from all walks of life, the Yantai squad was selected through open city-wide trials.

A total of 18 teams are competing in this year's league, divided by draw into four divisions for a round of home-and-away group matches. Yantai has been placed in the Ludong Division alongside teams like Weifang, whom they will host later in September.

More than just a contest, the match became a public festival of sport. It highlighted not only Yantai's vibrant sports culture but also how a shared love for football can bring a diverse community together.