Ordos finishes runner-up in Inner Mongolia Super League

Baotou defeated Ordos 6-5 in the final of the Mengniu 2026 Inner Mongolia Super League on Sept 12, bringing the five-month football season to a close.

Both teams had been eliminated in the quarterfinals last season but returned strongly this year, defeating title favorites in the semifinals to reach the championship match. Ordos fought until the final whistle and finished the season as runner-up after 15 matches.

The league also highlighted the growing popularity of community football across Inner Mongolia. Most players came from different professions and competed for their hometowns out of a shared passion for the sport.

Ordos supporters followed the team to both home and away matches, providing strong support from the stands as the team's "12th player."

More than a sporting competition, the league brought residents together and created new links among sports, culture and tourism. Its success showed how football can become part of community life and give local athletes and supporters a shared stage.