Shanghai Shenhua kicked off the 2025 Chinese Super League (CSL) season with a dramatic 2-1 home victory over Changchun Yatai in Shanghai Municipality on Saturday.
The match showcased the impressive form of Shenhua's newly-signed Brazilian striker, Saulo Mineiro, who previously led his team to a 3-2 win against reigning champions Shanghai Port in the Chinese Football Association (CFA) Super Cup earlier this month.
Mineiro continued his excellent performance in the CSL opener. In the 29th minute, Yang Haoyu delivered a cross into the box, finding Mineiro, whose initial shot was blocked by a defender. The rebound fell to Mineiro again, who scored from close range to give Shenhua a 1-0 lead.
Changchun Yatai responded before halftime, equalizing the score. In the 42nd minute, Jiang Shenglong mishandled a pass from Ibrahim Amadou, allowing Yatai an attacking opportunity. Although goalkeeper Bao Yaxiong deflected Yatai's cross, Tan Long successfully converted the effort, leveling the score at 1-1.
The deciding goal came in the seventh minute of stoppage time in the second half. Mineiro deftly chipped the ball over goalkeeper Wu Yake, setting up Andre Luis to score the game-winning goal, sealing Shenhua's victory.
In other matches on the night, Chengdu Rongcheng edged out Wuhan Three Towns with a 1-0 home win, while Beijing Guoan secured a 2-0 road victory against Yunnan Yukun.
