Beijing Guoan clinch 5th FA Cup title, ending seven-year trophy drought

环球时报网英文版2025-12-08 15:47

Beijing Guoan players celebrate winning the Chinese FA Cup after defeating Henan FC 3-0 in the final on December 6, 2025 in Suzhou, East China"s Jiangsu Province. Photo: VCG

Chinese Super League (CSL) giants Beijing Guoan claimed the Chinese FA Cup after defeating Henan FC 3-0 in the final thanks to a hat trick from forward Fabio Abreu, securing their fifth FA Cup title and ending a seven-year trophy drought dating back to 2018.

The Beijing-based team, one of China"s most storied football clubs, took control of the final from the opening whistle at the Suzhou Olympic Center Stadium.

The triumph marks a crucial turnaround for Guoan, who had shown strong early-season form by staying at the top of the league table at mid-season, but faltered in the latter stages due to tactical decisions made by the former head coach.

This FA Cup victory has turned a mixed campaign into a memorable one, much to the delight of the club"s passionate fanbase.

For Henan FC, the final appearance also marked a historic milestone, the closest the club has come to winning a championship in its 31-year history.

Guoan"s fifth Chinese FA Cup crown moves them further up the competition"s all-time honors list, trailing only Shandong Taishan who have eight titles.

The victory also secures the club a place in next season"s Asian Champions League, adding another layer of excitement to the offseason preparations.