Shanghai Shenhua solidified their position at the top of the Chinese Super League (CSL) with a commanding 3-0 away win against Dalian Yingbo on Saturday. The victory, marked by clinical finishing and defensive discipline, extends their lead to two points over second-placed Chengdu Rongcheng after 13 matches.
Joao Teixeira opened the scoring in the 34th minute, capitalizing on a deflected cross from Chen Jinyi. Four minutes later, Saulo Mineiro’s header set up Liu Chengyu for a simple finish, while Mineiro added a third goal early in the second half after a precise assist from captain Wu Xi.
The result was compounded by setbacks for Shenhua’s closest rivals. Chengdu Rongcheng drew 1-1 with Qingdao West Coast, while Shanghai Port and Shandong Taishan also shared points in a 1-1 stalemate. Tianjin Jinmen Tiger climbed to sixth place with a 2-1 win over bottom-ranked Changchun Yatai, whose struggles continue with just one victory this season.
With 32 points from 10 wins, Shenhua remains the team to beat as the CSL approaches its midway point. Their blend of attacking flair and tactical cohesion has positioned them as strong contenders for the title, drawing attention from football enthusiasts and analysts across Asia.
