The most glaring one is that the local club opened their newly rebuilt stadium just in time for the beginning of the season. Beijing Guoan spent the previous three seasons at a temporary ground in the west of the city. And this new stadium, built on the grounds of the old one, was purpose-built for the beautiful game. As anyone would imagine, the buzz around the new ground led to a sellout for the opening match back in April and that sentiment has continued ever since.

One of the few remaining neighborhood grounds, it’s not like any of the modern stadiums being built nowadays. Nestled snugly within the confines of a tightly fitting neighborhood, space is definitely a scarce commodity. All of which provides a character more akin to Wrigley Field or Fenway Park. After your ticket is scanned, you walk up a narrow set of stairs to your section. But at the landing, you’re greeted by the concession area, which itself is equally lacking in space. The tight confines add to the charm though. Fans accommodate each other and are gracious when shoulders and bodies inevitably collide.