Loïc Lapoussin's unstoppable surge in the Chinese second division

On a damp evening at the stadium of GX Hengchen, where the stands are still empty, Loïc Lapoussin lets the ball glide over the line and scores his second goal of the week. With a smile from ear to mouth he confirms his form, which had already earned him much praise in Belgium.

New start in China

Last winter Loïc Lapoussin left STVV, after he had not been able to play for months. Felice Mazzù still saw a role for him at the Kan, but Wouter Vrancken thought otherwise. Eventually the former Union player from Belgium found a new challenge at GX Hengchen in the Chinese second tier.

In the Chinese second tier the Malagasy international had to start from scratch again. As one of the four foreigners in a core without big stars he must put his technical qualities at the service of the team. That is already working excellently; already in his second appearance Lapoussin was decisive.

Loïc Lapoussin propels Hengchen towards promotion from China

"It felt great to be back on the pitch. I really feel like I'm a professional footballer again," he said upon his arrival. His enthusiasm immediately gave a boost to the attack.

The partnership continues to bear fruit. Last weekend Lapoussin scored two goals against Yatai and last night he again found the way to the net. His stats may be impressive: twelve goals and seven assists in twenty-three matches.

Can Lapoussin lead Hengchen, which last season still played at the third level, to the top division? The team currently sits third and is seven points behind second place, which grants direct promotion.