Shanghai Shenhua thrashed Yunnan Yukun 7-1 in the Chinese Super League on October 10, with 37-year-old captain Wu Xi orchestrating every single one of his side's seven goals. The veteran midfielder delivered a masterclass in playmaking, underlining his indispensable role in the team's engine room.
Head coach Milosevic was full of praise for Wu Xi and defender Zhu Chenjie. “It is certain that both Wu Xi and Zhu Chenjie are very important in the team, and their performances are very steady and professional,” Milosevic said. “After returning from the Asian Games, they have set an example for our other players.” Milosevic added that the team's injury situation is improving, providing more options for the busy schedule ahead.
Wu Xi played 80 minutes and provided the penultimate pass for five of the goals. From an overhead flick to start the move for the opener, to crosses from the right, a clever back-heeled through ball, and intelligent lay-offs, he was the creative hub for Shenhua's entire attack. Hat-trick hero Rafael Ratão also paid tribute to his skipper after the match, saying the victory was very important and congratulating Wu Xi on helping the Asian Games team win a bronze medal. “His performance today was phenomenal, the source of our attack,” Ratão added.
The win was a vital boost for Shenhua, halting a run of form that had seen them record just one win, one draw, and three defeats in their last five outings. The heavy victory also provided a temporary boost to the team's league position, which fans can track on the standings page. The team now turns its focus to an away fixture against Svay Rieng on October 15. The full schedule can be viewed on our fixtures page. Wu Xi's performance proved that age has not diminished his decisive influence, as he remains the most reliable driving force in Shenhua's midfield.
First reported at LiveBar
