Shanghai, March 01, 2024, The Europe Today: In a thrilling opening match of the 2024 Chinese Super League (CSL) season, star forward Wu Lei showcased his brilliance by scoring a brace, leading defending champions Shanghai Port to a come-from-behind 3-1 victory over Wuhan Three Towns on Friday.
The contest unfolded at an electric pace, with Wuhan breaking the deadlock in the 20th minute. Wang Yi capitalized on a rebound following Romario Balde’s long-distance strike, denying Shanghai goalkeeper Yan Junling and giving Wuhan an early lead.
Wu Lei, the 2023 Chinese Footballer of the Year, responded for Shanghai in the 33rd minute with a spectacular right-footed volley, courtesy of a well-placed header from Lyu Wenjun.
As the match progressed, Shanghai seized control in the 75th minute when Wu Lei headed home a precise right cross from Oscar. The latter continued to make an impact, assisting substitute Wang Shenchao, who scored a header from a corner during stoppage time to secure the 3-1 victory for the defending champions.
Speaking after the match, Wu Lei expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “We are still in the process of adapting to the philosophy of our new head coach. We did a good job today. Our head coach emphasized playing fast, and we are getting better and better.”
In other CSL fixtures, Matheus Pato played a pivotal role in Shandong Taishan’s 4-2 victory over Changchun Yatai, contributing two goals and one assist. Meanwhile, newly-promoted Qingdao West Coast secured a 1-1 draw against Henan FC.
The opening day of the 2024 CSL season showcased thrilling action, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive football season in China.
