Shanghai Shenhua claimed a 3-1 victory away to Shenzhen FC to move top of the 2023 Chinese Super League (CSL) standings on Tuesday.
Shenhua went ahead in the 16th minute when Wang Haijian crossed from the flank and Cephas Malele tapped in from close range.
Frank Acheampong thought he equalized for Shenzhen in the 48th minute, but his header was disallowed for offside.
A screenshot of Shanghai Shenhua's Weibo post on May 9 about the match. /Shanghai Shenhua
Shenhua's attack showed no signs of slowing down after the break. Malele netted with a back-heel in the 57th minute, and five minutes later, Macario Hing-Glover set up Cao Yunding to score a tap-in.
Will Donkin's late effort found the top corner, giving Shenzhen a consolation goal.
Shenhua now sit top of the table with five wins and one draw.
In Tuesday's other fixtures, Henan FC drew 1-1 at home with Wuhan Three Towns, while Dalian Pro and Cangzhou Mighty Lions also played out a 1-1 draw.
(Cover: Players and staff of Shanghai Shenhua at the ceremony to start their new season in Shanghai, China, April 12, 2023. /CFP)