CSL champion Guangzhou Evergrande stun Bayern in penalty shootout

Guangzhou Evergrande's goalkeeper Zeng Cheng became the hero as he denied Thomas Muller's spot-kick and helped his team beat the German giants 5-4 in penalty shootout here on Thursday.

Bayern's first attempt by Muller in shootout was saved by Zeng Cheng while Paulinho, Kim Young Gwon, Yu Hanchao, Zhao Xuri and Feng Xiaoting held their nerve to convert spot kicks, helping Evergrande take away the victory.

"It is a fantastic game. Bayern is a strong team, but we have showed our ability through the game and we have a lot of opportunities to break the deadlock. I am satisfied with our performance," said Luiz Felipe Scolari, Evergrande's manager.

Bayern's coach Pep Guardiola made some changes as Mario Gotze, who scored the only goal in last match against Inter Milan, was given a rare start. Evergrande's newcomer Robinho made his debut after joining the Chinese Super League (CSL) defending champion.

Bayern almost took the lead just six minutes into the game, but Pierre Hojbjerg saw his header wide off the post.

Ricardo Goulart, Gao Lin and Robinho's attempts in three minutes forced Manuel Neuer to make excellent saves.

Lahm and Thiago Alcantara came off the bench after the half break, before Muller and Xabi Alonso replaced Gotze and Joshua Kimmich in the 55th minute.

Muller's volley-shot inside the box from David Alaba's pass on the left wing was denied by Zeng Cheng in the 62nd minute.

Evergrande missed the opportunity to break the deadlock as Gao Lin failed to beat goalkeeper Sven Ulreich after Kim Young Gwon's through pass put him clear of Bayern's defense in the 66th minute.

In the 82nd minute, Muller's shot after turning around was blocked by Zeng Cheng's leg. A goalless draw brought the game into penalty shootout, where the hosts tasted the win. Endi