Shanghai Port climbed to third place in the Chinese Super League (CSL) standings after a commanding 3-1 victory over Changchun Yatai on Friday in Changchun, northeast China’s Jilin Province. The win marks Shanghai Port’s fourth consecutive triumph, edging them closer to the top of the league.
The match saw an unexpected pause in the 16th minute when a drone intrusion temporarily halted play, adding a unique twist to the encounter. Despite several impressive saves by Changchun goalkeeper Wu Yake, Shanghai Port broke the deadlock in first-half stoppage time. An unfortunate own goal occurred when Abduhamit Abdugheni’s attempted clearance of Wang Shenchao’s cross ended up in his own net, giving Shanghai a 1-0 lead.
Changchun Yatai appeared to equalize moments later when Ohi Omoijuanfo found the net from close range. However, the goal was disallowed after the referee ruled that the Norwegian striker had handled the ball before scoring.
In the 71st minute, Shanghai Port doubled their advantage with a precise strike from Gabriezinho at the edge of the box. Changchun pulled one back ten minutes later when Piao Taoyu was fouled in the box by Li Xinxiang. After consulting the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), a penalty was awarded, and Omoijuanfo converted to make it 2-1.
Shanghai Port sealed the victory in the final minute of stoppage time. Kuai Jiwen made a swift run into the box and set up Xu Xin, who tapped in to finalize the score at 3-1. This victory brings Shanghai Port’s record to 11 wins in 17 games, placing them just one point behind league leaders Beijing Guoan and Shanghai Shenhua.
In another significant match, Tianjin Jinmen Tiger defeated Chengdu Rongcheng 2-1 at home, marking the first time Tianjin has beaten Chengdu twice in a single season. Chengdu believed they had taken an early lead when Romulo assisted De Erjiaduo, but the goal was overturned due to an offside call.
Tianjin capitalized on defensive errors, with Wang Qiuming opening the scoring after intercepting a misplaced pass from goalkeeper Liu Dianzuo in the 54th minute. A penalty converted by Albion Ademi extended their lead after Alberto Quiles was fouled in the box. Despite Wei Shihao pulling one back for Chengdu from the penalty spot, and later being sent off for a second yellow card, Tianjin held on for the win. Chengdu Rongcheng’s loss drops them to fourth place in the standings.
