In a thrilling encounter at home, Shanghai Shenhua secured a vital 4-2 win over Vissel Kobe in the AFC Champions League Elite, thanks to an outstanding performance by Saulo Mineiro. The Brazilian striker delivered a hat-trick, showcasing his pivotal role in the team's ascent to seventh place in the East division of the Chinese Super League.
The match kicked off explosively as Mineiro scored just 68 seconds in, tapping in a precise header from Gao Tianyi's corner. Vissel Kobe's hopes were dimmed early when Powell Obinna received a red card in the 7th minute for a reckless challenge on Andre Luis outside the penalty area, reducing Kobe to ten men.
Shanghai Shenhua extended their lead in first-half stoppage time when Chen Jingyi capitalized on a deflected shot, sending it into the bottom corner. The second half saw Mineiro continue his remarkable form, netting his second goal in the 48th minute from a rebound off Andre Luis's header. He completed his hat-trick in the 70th minute, confidently converting a penalty after Takuya Iwanami's handball.
Despite Vissel Kobe's efforts to stage a comeback, including a stunning strike from Niina Tominaga in the 87th minute and a late header from Haruya Ide, Shanghai Shenhua maintained their lead to secure the win. The victory not only boosts Shenhua's position but also keeps their hopes alive for advancing to the knockout rounds as one of the top eight teams.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
