The 2025 Chinese Super League (CSL) season kicks off with high stakes as Shanghai Shenhua, fresh from a 4-2 victory in the AFC Champions League Elite against Japan's Vissel Kobe, faces a revitalized Changchun Yatai. This match showcases a dynamic clash between Shenhua's youthful energy and Yatai's strategic reinvention.
Shenhua boasts the youngest squad in the CSL, with title hopes anchored by 18-year-old striker Liu Chengyu. Following the departure of Cephas Malele, Liu is supported by Brazilian forward Saulo and seasoned midfielder Joao Teixeira. Coach Leonid Slutskiy, whose team narrowly missed the league title last year, is driving his team with a sense of urgency. “We have to try to show our best level,” emphasized the 54-year-old Russian coach.
On the other side, Changchun Yatai has strengthened their lineup with key signings like Norwegian striker Ohi Omoijuanfo and French playmaker Wylan Cyprien. The team has also enhanced their domestic roster with players such as Li Shenyuan, Piao Taoyu, Xu Yu, and Sun Qinhan. Coach Xie Hui, a former Shenhua standout, highlighted the emotional and competitive significance of the match. “This is a match that is really worth paying attention to, and we should perform better, as Shenhua is my former club,” he stated.
Looking ahead, Yatai faces a challenging early schedule, including an upcoming trip to take on reigning champions Shanghai Port next week. Fans can expect an intense season as these teams vie for dominance in one of Asia's most competitive leagues.
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Shenhua to launch title charge against revamped Yatai in CSL opener
cgtn.com
