Shanghai Shenhua kicked off their AFC Cup group stage campaign with a 2-1 home victory over Singapore's Tampines Rovers on September 17. Goals from Xu Haoyang and Yang Shuai secured all three points in front of a vibrant home crowd at Hongkou Football Stadium.
The win came despite significant personnel challenges for Shenhua. The team was missing several key players due to international duty and injuries, forcing a makeshift defensive line. This vulnerability was exposed in the 33rd minute when Tampines Rovers' Faris Ramli capitalized on a swift counter-attack to equalize. Manager Wu Jingui had previously noted the team needed match sharpness after a break from competitive action.
Tampines, with several Japanese imports in their squad, are known for their quick passing and experience in Asian competitions. They set up to defend deep and hit on the break. Shenhua's superior quality and home advantage ultimately told, with midfielder Gao Tianyi providing assists for both goals. He set up Xu Haoyang's opener in the 19th minute and Yang Shuai's winner just after the hour mark. The result means Shenhua's form in their last five matches across all competitions reads three wins and two losses (LWLWW).
Attention now turns back to domestic commitments and preparing for the next challenge. According to the fixture list, Shenhua will host Russian Premier League side Zenit at home on September 27. Supporters can check the upcoming fixtures for further arrangements. While the attack delivered, finding solutions to the defensive shortage remains a priority for Shenhua as they handle a busy schedule. Detailed match statistics are available on our stats page.
First reported at 手机新浪网
