The China Youth Football League (Men's U13 Group) produced a tightly contested morning fixture on September 17, 2026, as Quzhou Xin'an U13 and Dalian Haiqiu Shaonian U13 played out a 1-1 draw. The result leaves both sides with a share of the points in a competitive age group where development and results go hand in hand.

Final score: Quzhou Xin'an U13 1-1 Dalian Haiqiu Shaonian U13
Competition: China Youth Football League (Men's U13 Group)
Kick-off: 09:30, September 17, 2026

Match Overview

Quzhou Xin'an U13 began the match with purpose, pressing high and looking to play through the thirds with quick combinations. Their early pressure was rewarded when they opened the scoring inside the first quarter of an hour, finishing off a well-worked move that started on the right flank and ended with a composed finish inside the penalty area.

Dalian Haiqiu Shaonian U13 responded with maturity beyond their years. The visitors gradually settled into the game, tightened their midfield shape, and began to find space between the lines. Their persistence paid off before half-time when they equalised with a crisp strike from the edge of the box, leaving the Quzhou goalkeeper with little chance.

The second half was a more balanced affair, with both teams creating half-chances but neither able to find a winner. Quzhou pushed late for a decisive goal, while Dalian defended resolutely and looked dangerous on the counter-attack. In the end, a draw felt like a fair reflection of a game played in a positive, developmental spirit.

Key Moments

• 12th minute – Quzhou Xin'an take the lead: A patient build-up down the right ended with a low cross that was converted from close range. The move involved at least five quick passes, a hallmark of Quzhou's coaching philosophy.
• 28th minute – Dalian Haiqiu Shaonian equalise: The visitors won the ball back in midfield and quickly switched play to the left. A clever cut-back found a runner arriving late in the box, who struck first time into the bottom corner.
• 43rd minute – Quzhou nearly regain the lead: A free-kick from 20 yards forced a smart save from the Dalian goalkeeper, who tipped the ball over the crossbar.
• 58th minute – Dalian go close: A quick counter-attack ended with a shot that flashed just wide of the far post, reminding Quzhou of the danger on the break.
• 70th minute – Late pressure from Quzhou: A series of corners caused problems in the Dalian box, but a combination of brave defending and a crucial block kept the score level.

Tactical Story

Quzhou Xin'an set up in a flexible 4-3-3, with the wide forwards instructed to stay high and stretch the Dalian back line. Their midfield trio looked to dominate possession and recycle the ball quickly, often using the goalkeeper as an extra passing option to beat the first press. This approach worked well in the opening 20 minutes and gave them a deserved lead.

Dalian Haiqiu Shaonian, meanwhile, lined up in a compact 4-4-2 that became a 4-5-1 without the ball. Their wingers dropped deep to protect the full-backs, and their two central midfielders worked tirelessly to screen the space in front of the defence. As the game wore on, Dalian's discipline allowed them to nullify Quzhou's central creativity and launch quick transitions of their own.

The second half became a tactical chess match. Quzhou's coach encouraged the full-backs to push higher, while Dalian responded by keeping their forwards pinned to the halfway line to threaten on the break. Neither side was willing to gamble everything for a winner, and the defensive organisation on both sides was impressive for players of this age group.

Standout Players

For Quzhou Xin'an U13, the central midfielder wearing the No. 8 shirt was the heartbeat of the team. He dictated the tempo, rarely gave the ball away, and was always available to receive under pressure. His ability to turn away from opponents and drive forward created several promising moments.

Dalian Haiqiu Shaonian U13 were well served by their goalkeeper, who made three important saves in the second half. His positioning and handling were excellent, and his quick distribution often turned defence into attack. The Dalian captain, a composed centre-back, also impressed with his reading of the game and his willingness to step out of defence with the ball.

Quzhou's right winger was a constant threat in the first half, using his pace and close control to beat his marker on several occasions. Although he faded slightly after the break, his contribution in the opening period was a key reason Quzhou took the lead.

What the Draw Means for the Standings

Both teams add a point to their tally in the China Youth Football