Shanghai Shenhua continued their impressive unbeaten run in the 2024-25 Chinese Super League (CSL) season, securing a 1-0 victory over Shandong Taishan on Saturday in Jinan, east China’s Shandong Province. The win marks their seventh triumph of the season, keeping them firmly at the top of the league table.
The first half saw Shenhua pressing hard, with Brazilian forward Saulo Mineiro nearly breaking the deadlock, only to be denied by Taishan’s goalkeeper Wang Dalei. Despite several close attempts, both teams went into halftime without a goal.
The breakthrough came in the 77th minute when Gao Tianyi connected with a pass from Andre Luis, heading the ball confidently into the net. This decisive goal not only clinched the match for Shenhua but also marked their fourth consecutive win.
“It was a tough game, but we stayed focused,” said Gao after the match. “I’m glad I could contribute to the team’s success.”
Shandong Taishan, on the other hand, suffered their second straight loss, reflecting a challenging period for the team. “We need to regroup and work on our strategy,” said their coach. “There’s still a long way to go this season.”
In other CSL action, second-placed Chengdu Rongcheng kept up the pressure on Shenhua by defeating Changchun Yatai 2-1 in Changchun, northeast China’s Jilin Province. An early goal by Yuan Mincheng gave Rongcheng the lead, and Wei Shihao’s header in the 49th minute secured the victory despite a swift response from Changchun’s Robert Beric.
The night’s excitement didn’t end there. In Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province, Shenzhen and Dalian played to a 1-1 draw, showcasing the competitive spirit prevalent throughout the league this season.
As the CSL progresses, Shanghai Shenhua’s unbeaten streak positions them as strong contenders for the title. With Chengdu Rongcheng close behind, the race for the championship promises to be thrilling for fans across the region.
