Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Chinese Super League match.
After their elimination from the Chinese FA Cup at the semifinal stage, Shanghai Shenhua will now focus on their league performances. The next opponent for them will be Qingdao Hainiu, who are mid-table – a contender for the championship title should handle them confidently.
Qingdao Hainiu
In the last round, Qingdao Hainiu unexpectedly lost to Nantong Zhiyun, who were at the bottom of the Super League table (1:2). At home, they perform reasonably well but still managed to concede 22 goals in 13 games – only three teams in the league have a worse defensive record. In their squad, Evans Kangwa (5 + 7) and Martin Boakye (10 goals) stand out, but the duo alone won't be able to stop in-form Shanghai Shenhua.
Shanghai Shenhua
Shanghai Shenhua likely expended a lot of energy in their cup match against Port (2:3), but they can't afford to slow down in the Super League. Last weekend, the team claimed a last-gasp victory over Tianjin Jinmen Tigers (2:1) thanks to two late goals from Yu Hanchao. The team has scored at least one goal in away league matches since May 11 (seven games in a row). For Shanghai Shenhua, André Luiz and Cephas Malele are performing exceptionally well – the Brazilian and the Swiss players have collectively scored 30+10 in the tournament.
Qingdao Hainiu vs Shanghai Shenhua Prediction
Shanghai Shenhua are hoping for any slip-up from Port that would allow them to take the lead in the table. They managed to beat Qingdao Hainiu in May (2:0) and are ready to repeat that success with a handicap.
