China’s first 3v3 AI robot soccer match kicked off in Beijing, showcasing humanoid robots competing in fast-paced matches.
Colorfully dressed humanoid robots sprinted across the green field at the Beijing Smart Esports Event Center on June 28, dribbling, passing, and shooting. It marked the grand final of the 2025 RoBoLeague—China’s first-ever 3v3 AI Robot Soccer Match.
Unlike robot marathons, soccer requires more complex skills. The game tests a robot’s movement control, visual recognition, navigation, decision-making, and teamwork.
Four teams advanced to the final after fierce earlier rounds: Blaze Team from Beijing Information Science and Technology University, Huoshen Team from Tsinghua University, Power Intelligence from Tsinghua University’s Future Laboratory, and Mountain Sea Team from China Agricultural University.
After three hours of intense matches, Huoshen Team claimed the championship. Founded 21 years ago, the team also won the AdultSize category at the RoboCup German Open in March this year.
“We designed algorithms that help the robots identify the ball and goal through image recognition,” said team captain Wang Yushi. “Our decision-making systems choose the best actions, and motion control sends commands to each joint.” The team also drew inspiration from real human teams, assigning different robots to attack, defend, support, or shoot.
This competition was also the first test event for the 2025 World Humanoid Robot Games, scheduled for August in Beijing. Over 50 teams have already signed up, and organizers hope the event will showcase cutting-edge robot tech and inspire broader industry adoption.
Additional reporting by CNS.
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