Shanghai Shenhua kicked off the 2025 Chinese Super League (CSL) season with an exhilarating 2-1 victory against Changchun Yatai at their home ground in Shanghai on Saturday. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, showcasing Shenhua's fighting spirit and strategic prowess.
Earlier this month, Shenhua made headlines by defeating reigning champions Shanghai Port 3-2 in the Chinese Football Association (CFA) Super Cup, with their star Brazilian striker Saulo Mineiro shining brightly by netting two crucial goals. Mineiro continued his impressive form in the CSL opener, playing a pivotal role in the win against Yatai.
The action got underway in the 29th minute when Yang Haoyu delivered a precise cross into the box. Although Mineiro's initial shot was blocked by a defender and Wu Xi's attempt was saved by goalkeeper Wu Yake, the ball fell perfectly for Mineiro, who calmly finished from close range to put Shenhua ahead 1-0.
Yatai wasn’t backing down, managing to equalize before halftime. In the 42nd minute, Jiang Shenglong missed a crucial pass from Ibrahim Amadou, creating an opportunity for Yatai to launch a counterattack from the right wing. Despite goalie Bao Yaxiong's deflection of Yatai's cross, Tan Long capitalized on the chance, slotting the ball into the net to level the score at 1-1.
The game remained intense and tightly contested until the very end. In the seventh minute of stoppage time, Mineiro orchestrated a brilliant play by chipping the ball over goalkeeper Wu, allowing Andre Luis to seize the moment and score the decisive game-winner for Shenhua.
The night didn't end there for CSL fans. In other matches, Chengdu Rongcheng secured a 1-0 home victory over Wuhan Three Towns, while Beijing Guoan triumphed 2-0 on the road against Yunnan Yukun. It was a thrilling start to the season, setting the stage for more exciting football action ahead!
Reference(s):
Shanghai Shenhua begin new CSL season with last-minute home win
cgtn.com
