Shandong Taishan, the defending champions in China's top-tier professional football league (CSL), secured their spot in the semi-finals with a thrilling last-minute victory over Beijing Guoan on Sunday.

The match was played at the Shandong Rizhao Sports Center and was filled with high-intensity play throughout. In the final minutes, Shandong managed to break through Beijing's defense and score a goal that looked destined for the back of the net before it hit the crossbar and bounced back into play.

Despite being behind by one goal, Shandong refused to give up and fought until the very end. They were eventually able to equalize the scoreline thanks to a stunning strike from substitute midfielder Zhang Jike. With the equalizer in hand, Shandong had a chance to win the match in regulation time but failed to do so, leaving them needing a late comeback to secure a win.

In the extra time period, Shandong continued to push forward and create chances, but Beijing were resolute in their defensive efforts. It took a penalty shootout to decide the outcome of the game, and despite missing several penalties, Shandong emerged victorious thanks to goalkeeper Lu Xue's heroics in front of the goal.

With the win, Shandong have advanced to the semi-finals of the CSL and will face either Guangzhou Evergrande or Shanghai SIPG in the next round. The victory is a major boost for Shandong as they look to defend their title and make history by becoming the first team to win the CSL three times consecutively.