On Friday, May 15 at 19:35 Beijing time, the 12th round of the 2026 Chinese Super League will feature a high-stakes clash between bottom-placed Tianjin Jinmen Tiger and league leaders Chengdu Rongcheng. The match will be broadcast live on CCTV sports channel CCTV5+. With one team fighting to escape the relegation zone and the other riding an eight-match winning streak, this is a battle of extremes that promises plenty of drama.
Chengdu Rongcheng are a force to be reckoned with, boasting a lethal attacking lineup that includes Felipe, Wellington Silva, Romulo, Wei Shihao, and Baihelamu. After a commanding 3-0 home victory over Henan in the previous round, they remain unbeaten and continue to dominate the league table. Head coach John Aloisi has also managed to keep his squad remarkably injury-free, a factor that has contributed to their sustained success.
Tianjin Jinmen Tiger, on the other hand, are stuck at the bottom of the standings after a hard-fought 1-1 draw away to Zhejiang. Despite the odds stacked against them, there is a glimmer of hope as foreign midfielder Xietine is expected to return for this match after recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during the April 25 away game against Beijing Guoan. Tianjin’s coaching staff had opted to keep him out of the Zhejiang fixture to minimize risk, allowing him to fully recuperate in Tianjin.
The hero of that draw was foreign player Hadas, who confidently converted a penalty and later told a local sports program: “As the team’s designated penalty taker, I was full of confidence. Although our next opponent, Chengdu, sits at the top of the table, we are not afraid. Our only goal is to stay united and win at home.” Hadas’ on-field leadership and composure will be crucial as Tianjin hope to defy expectations. The stage is set for an unforgettable showdown on May 15.
