In the Super Cup final just past, Shanghai's two teams once again staged the city's football derby. As a die-hard fan, I sat in front of the TV early and was looking forward to a good game. However, 90 minutes passed, and what I felt was mixed.
Shenhua finally beat SIPG 1-0, and Malele's goal was not just a score, it represented Shenhua's indomitable spirit and tenacious will to fight. On the other hand, SIPG, this game continued the slump at the end of last season, and both offense and defense seemed inadequate.
SIPG's problems seem to have been evident since last summer. A team that was originally full of momentum suddenly lost its direction. The offense was no longer sharp, and the defensive line made frequent mistakes, all of which left fans confused and disappointed. A change of coach is like a change of knife, but the arrival of Muscatt did not immediately turn the situation around. In last night's game, although SIPG had a high possession rate, there were few attacks that were really threatening, and those obvious mistakes in defense directly led to the goal conceded.
What's even more puzzling is that several of the main players whose performance has declined last year are still starting in the new season. And the red card of new signing Yusa has cast a shadow on the team. In the absence of timely reinforcements, it is obviously difficult for SIPG to make a difference in the new season.
The Super Cup is not a heavyweight event, but it is the beginning of a new season and a stage for the team to show itself. SIPG's defeat on such a stage, especially to its city rivals, is undoubtedly a heavy blow. This game is not only the loss of a trophy, but also the alarm on the journey of the new season.
Looking back on this game, I can't help but start worrying about SIPG's next season. If the existing problems cannot be solved in time, their journey in the Chinese Super League and even the AFC Champions League will be full of challenges. As a fan, I hope SIPG can find its rhythm and regain its vitality as soon as possible. At the same time, I also congratulate Shenhua and hope that they can usher in a more brilliant season on the basis of this victory.