Shenhua and SIPG draw in Shanghai derby

SUZHOU - The Shanghai derby between Shenhua and SIPG ended goalless here in the 15th round of the Chinese Super League (CSL) here on Sunday.

In the 38th minute, aiming to receive Feng Xiaoting's long pass from the backfield, Bi Jinhao retreated with his back towards the goal, but his elbow accidentally hit SIPG goalkeeper Yan Junling's face. The latter painfully fell to the ground and was later sent to the bench after a period of treatment.

Right after the beginning of the second half, Murahmetjan Muzepper's cross from the left flank found Austrian midfielder Marko Arnautovic, who dribbled through Cameroonian Stephane M'Bia and contributed a volley. Unfortunately, the ball flew over the crossbar.

In the 70th minute, when veteran Cao Yunding's free-kick fell into the box, Shenhua players complained about the handball of SIPG striker Li Shenglong, but was denied by the referee.

"We played actively on the pitch and well carried out the tactics of the head coach, but we did not seize a few good opportunities. I think the next game is more important," said Murahmetjan Muzepper.

More than 2,000 fans were allowed into the stadium to watch the game, after the CSL reported zero COVID-19 infections in the first phase of this season from July 22 to Sept 28.