Two-time defending champions Shanghai Port had a golden opportunity to take the lead in the Chinese Super League standings but ended up settling for a 1-1 draw at home against Tianjin Jinmen Tiger. Fans in Shanghai and beyond watched as the hosts took an early lead before Tianjin fought back to level the match before halftime.
The action kicked off in the 11th minute when Liu Ruofan was fouled in the box by Wang Xianjun, earning a penalty for Port. Gabrielzinho calmly converted his ninth CSL goal of the season, sending goalkeeper Yan Bingliang the wrong way and giving the home side a 1-0 advantage.
Undeterred, Tianjin pressed for an equalizer, and their persistence paid off in the 43rd minute. Midfielder Cristian Salvador delivered a precise through ball to Alberto Quiles, who slipped past defender Wei Zhen and slotted home past Yan Junling to restore parity just before the break.
Both teams pushed hard in the second half, but neither could find the back of the net again. The draw leaves Shanghai Port second with 48 points, just one behind city rivals Shanghai Shenhua, while Tianjin Jinmen Tiger remain seventh.
Reference(s):
Shanghai Port stumble in CSL title chase after draw against Tianjin
cgtn.com
