Beijing Guoan Football Club issued a public apology early Monday after a heavy defeat to Shandong Taishan in the Chinese Super League (CSL). Photo: Screenshot from Weibo

 
On evening of Sunday, Guoan lost 0-6 away to Shandong Taishan in Round 23 of the 2025 CSL season, ending their three-match winning streak. It was the club's heaviest-ever defeat in China's top-flight league.

In the statement, Guoan said the entire club felt "deeply responsible" for the performance, extending a "solemn apology to all who care about and support the team." It admitted that, like its loyal fans, the club was "ashamed and sleepless" after the defeat.

"The club and players will reflect seriously and quickly adjust our form," the statement read. "There are still seven tough matches ahead. We will fight for every game. Our seasonal goal will not change, and our determination to compete for the championship will never change. We will fight until the very last moment!"

The league table shows that Guoan remain firmly in the title race despite the setback. Three of the four leading contenders also lost this round, leaving Guoan fourth on 48 points, level on points with rivals but behind on goal difference, and just two points adrift of leaders Chengdu Rongcheng.

The CSL now pauses for a two-week international break. Beijing Guoan will return to action on September 12 with an away match against Henan.

Global Times