Players of Shanghai Shenhua celebrate after scoring a goal in the Chinese Super League (CSL) game against Changchun Yatai in east China's Shanghai Municipality, February 22, 2025. /Shanghai Shenhua

Shanghai Shenhua defeated Changchun Yatai 2-1 at home in east China's Shanghai Municipality on Saturday to begin the 2025 Chinese Super League (CSL) season with a victory.

Shenhua defeated reigning champions Shanghai Port 3-2 in the Chinese Football Association (CFA) Super Cup earlier this month when their newly-signed Brazilian striker Saulo Mineiro scored two goals.

Mineiro extended his excellent form against Yatai. In the 29th minute, Yang Haoyu found Mineiro in the box with a cross. His shot was blocked by a defender before Wu Xi's attempt was denied by goalkeeper Wu Yake. The ball landed with Mineiro again who then netted from close range, putting Shenhua ahead 1-0.

Yatai tied the score before the halftime break. In the 42nd minute, Jiang Shenglong failed to catch a pass from Ibrahim Amadou, leaving the opponents a chance to attack from the right wing. Though goalie Bao Yaxiong deflected Yatai's cross, Tan Long shot the ball into the goal, turning the score 1-1 for the visitors.

The third goal of the game came as late as in the seventh minute of stoppage time in the second half. Mineiro managed to chip the ball over goalkeeper Wu when Andre Luis was there to score the game winner.

In the other two games on the night, Chengdu Rongcheng defeated Wuhan Three Towns 1-0 at home. Beijing Guoan beat Yunnan Yukun 2-0 on the road.