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Zhang makes history as first Chinese footballer debuting in Spanish Primera Liga

Xinhua, December 31, 2015 Adjust font size:

Zhang Chengdong made history on Wednesday night when he became the first Chinese football player playing in the Spanish BBVA Primera Liga.

The 26-year-old came on as an 82nd minute substitute for Madrid based side, Rayo Vallecano in their 2-0 defeat at home to local rivals, Atletico Madrid, thanks to goals from Angel Correo and Antoine Griezmann.

Zhang joined Rayo, who are sponsored by Chinese company 'qbao.com', from Beijing Guoan during the summer, but needed time to adapt to the Spanish game.

His only two previous appearances for the club were in the last round of the King's Cup knockout competition in which saw Rayo qualify for the last 16 on away goals against Getafe. Endit