Shanghai Port's quest for a third consecutive Chinese Super League (CSL) title suffered a setback after a 1-1 draw with Tianjin Jinmen Tiger on Saturday, leaving them one point behind leaders Shanghai Shenhua in a tense championship race.
The defending champions started strong at home, with Gabrielzinho converting an 11th-minute penalty after Liu Ruofan was brought down in the box. The Brazilian forward's ninth league goal this season initially energized the hosts, but Tianjin's relentless counterattacks bore fruit just before halftime. Spanish midfielder Cristian Salvador orchestrated a clinical equalizer, feeding Alberto Quiles for a composed finish past veteran goalkeeper Yan Junling.
Despite intense second-half pressure from both sides, defensive discipline prevailed in the final third. The result leaves Shanghai Port with 48 points from 22 matches, while Tianjin remains mid-table in seventh. Analysts suggest the dropped points could prove pivotal in a title race increasingly defined by narrow margins.
With eight matches remaining, attention now turns to next week's Shanghai derby against Shenhua – a potential decider in one of Asia's most competitive football leagues.
