The Chinese Super League running distance leaderboard is no longer what it used to be—it’s shifted from a predictable list to a showcase of surprise performers. Hainiu’s foreign midfielder Ezyma has proven to be an unstoppable force, consistently covering massive ground. His relentless effort has been a key factor in Qingdao Hainiu’s impressive four-match winning streak. For a relegation-threatened team, giving full effort doesn’t guarantee victory, but slacking off would only make things worse. Ezyma’s long-standing presence at the top of the running charts reflects the team’s overall fighting spirit.
On May 11, the CSL officially released the top five players in running distance for Round 11. Qingdao Hainiu’s Ezyma led the pack with 13,191 meters, followed by Chongqing Tonglianglong’s Chen Chunxin (12,968 meters) and Dalian Yingbo’s Stanciu (12,943 meters). Zhang Zhixiong (12,894 meters, Chongqing) and Liao Jintao (12,631 meters, Dalian) rounded out the top five. Notably, Dalian Yingbo and Chongqing Tonglianglong each had two players on the list.
Ezyma has consistently finished in the top three in running distance since Round 3 this season. He excels in both attack and defense, not only covering the most ground in the entire league but also creating real problems for Dalian’s midfield in this round. On the back of four straight wins, Qingdao Hainiu have climbed from the relegation zone to seventh place in the standings. Fans have joked, “If Ezyma can run over 12,000 meters, Hainiu will move up another spot in the table.” Another fan remarked, “Hainiu’s spine is rock solid.”
Some critics point out that Ezyma’s goal-scoring numbers aren’t impressive, but his importance to the current Hainiu side goes far beyond that. Shooting isn’t his strength, but his technical ability, rhythm, vision, tackling, and running are all top-notch. His main tasks are defensive interceptions and offensive organization, making his overall contribution undeniable. Let his teammates handle the goals. Despite Dalian Yingbo having two players on the running list, they lost 1-3 to Hainiu, rendering Stanciu and Liao Jintao’s efforts futile.
Stanciu, at his age, covered 12,943 meters to rank third, displaying strong technical and tactical awareness. His high-intensity running wasn’t just empty mileage—it consistently threatened the opponent’s goal, but luck wasn’t on his side. Liao Jintao’s 12,631 meters placed him fifth, showing even more hustle than teammate Alimi. Though Dalian lost, the players earned respect.
Chongqing Tonglianglong also had two representatives on the list, highlighting the youthful energy of this promoted team. With Li Zhenquan sidelined, Chen Chunxin (12,968 meters) and Zhang Zhixiong (12,894 meters) stepped up to make the top five. Running with such intensity is just the first step for a newly promoted side aiming for good results. The entire Tonglianglong squad operates in a “worker bee” mentality, constantly pressing opponents. They may not be a perfect team, but facing them leaves you gasping for breath.