Shanghai Shenhua keep CSL title race close after defeating Changchun Yatai on road

Shanghai Shenhua defeated Changchun Yatai 2-1 on the road in Changchun, northeast China's Jilin Province, on Sunday, surpassing Beijing Guoan to provisionally top the Chinese Super League (CSL) standings, having played one additional match.

Gao Tianyi's corner kick led to Zhu Chenjie opening the scoring for Shenhua in the 32nd minute. Eight minutes later, Andre Luis sent in a through ball to Joao Teixiera, who slotted into the right bottom corner of the net to double the visiting side's edge.

Yatai pulled one back eight minutes into the second half, when Tan Long headed in a cross from Zhao Yingjie. The hosts launched more fierce attacks in search of an equalizer as the game went on, but could not find the net again.

The win moved Shenhua to first place with 38 points from 16 matches, three above second-placed Beijing, who have only played 15 games. Guoan will host Yunnan Yukun on Monday, before welcoming Shenhua to the Workers Stadium on July 19.

Luis won't be able to suit up in the pivotal contest against the Capital Club, after receiving a yellow card against Yatai to trigger an automatic suspension.

Chengdu Rongcheng, who rank third in the CSL, were held to a 2-2 draw by Wuhan Three Towns on the road in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. Alexandru Tudorie scored first for the visitors in the 15th minute, but then knocked in an own goal 25 minutes later, allowing Chengdu to level the game.

Zhong Jinbao's long pass created a one-on-one chance that Gustavo Sauer converted in the 75th minute, putting Three Towns ahead again. But four minutes later, the visiting side's Wang Yi deflected a cross inside the box with his hand, leading to a penalty kick for Rongcheng.

Wei Shihao converted from the spot to bring Chengdu level and complete the scoring. The draw leaves Rongcheng one point behind Beijing Guoan, even after playing one more game than the Capital Club.

Sunday's Other Results (Home Teams Listed First):

Qingdao West Coast 1-0 Qingdao Hainiu

Meizhou Hakka 1-2 Tianjin Jinmen Tiger