Renato Augusto clearly hadn't read that particular script, however, and the Brazilian sent the home fans into raptures in dying seconds with a 25-yard screamer into the top corner that gave Cheng no chance, ensuring Guoan of their 13th win in 14 CSL games so far in 2019.

"It was a difficult game," said a visibly relieved Guoan coach Roger Schmidt afterwards. "I have a lot of respect for Guangzhou R&F. There was not much difference between the two teams today, and there are no easy games in the CSL."

Guangzhou manager Dragan Stojkovic praised his players' application despite their defeat. "I was very proud of the players despite the result. Sometimes in football the result doesn't follow the performance. We showed we were not afraid of Beijing Guoan, who will probably be champions this year."

The Serbian wouldn't be drawn on Zahavi's red card, however, saying: "I've been in Chinese football four years, so I wasn't born yesterday. I've learned that it's better not to talk too much."

Guoan's 13th win of the season puts them eight points clear at the top on 39 points, while Guangzhou stay ninth with 15 points.

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