Two thousand fans attend Chinese Super League match as spectators are allowed for first time since pandemic - in pictures

The Chinese Super League allowed spectators on Saturday for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic, with former Chelsea star Oscar marking the occasion by hitting the winner. Up to 2,000 people were allowed to attend the clash in Suzhou between title rivals Shanghai SIPG and Beijing Guoan. SIPG captain Oscar set up his team's equaliser before making it 2-1 with 14 minutes left. Football chiefs in China plan to allow a restricted number of spectators at selected matches as part of a gradual reopening. Beijing and SIPG fans were bussed to the stadium in Suzhou, had to take a coronavirus test in the preceding week, and were sat one metre apart. Rules stated spectators had to wear face masks throughout, but officials appeared to have relaxed the policy given the 30 degree Celsius heat. The league began on July 25, behind closed doors and with players kept in two bio-secure bubbles in Suzhou, near Shanghai, and the northeastern city of Dalian. The 16 teams have been split into two groups, one in each city. Victory for SIPG saw them leapfrog Beijing to the top of the Suzhou group after six matches.

Two thousand fans attend Chinese Super League match as spectators are allowed for first time since pandemic - in pictures

Former Chelsea star Oscar hits winner for Shanghai SIPG