In the Chinese Super League, last year's runners-up SIPG were looking to continue their fine form, that has seen them grab five straight wins, and they could extend that with a home triumph against Yanbian Fude.
Shanghai have also reached the knock-out stages of the AFC Champions League for the first time, and they go-ahead in this match only nine minutes in. Wu Lei finds Elkesson cutting inside the area, and the Brazilian slots past the keeper for his 63rd goal in China.He becomes the most prolific foreign scorer in the country.
Only five minutes later, SIPG double the tally. Wang Shenchao fires from well out and it slides inside the post. A prefect strike makes it 2-nil for the hosts.
The visitors come close in the 24th minute, but SIPG goalie Yan Junling pushes it onto the post and it stays out, as the Shanghai side stay in front 2-nil.
Second half now, and Dario Conca pouts when he loses possesion, but his team reclaim the ball -- and Elkeson is at it again, firing a left-footed strike past the keeper, the hosts hold on for a 3-0, their sixth in a row for Sven-Goran Eriksson's side. (SWIPE)
Victory moves Suning to the top of the standings
Meanwhile Jiangsu Suning would host Changchun Yatai.
Three points would lift Jiangsu to the top of the standings, and they get off to a good start -- Alex Teixeira sets up Ren Hang for the looping header. Suning take a 1-0 lead after only eight minutes. Teixeira finds Ren with the long free-kick, and the Jiangsu captain seizes the opportunity in the air to help his team go ahead. The keeper, was caught off his line.
The home side seal the 2-0 victory seven minutes into the second half. Teixeira sets up Ji Xiang for the cool finish from close range. Jiangsu beat Changchun 2-0. That helps Suning go to the top of the standings.
So here is a look at the table, after Friday's matches -- Jiangsu have a two-point lead over defending champs Guangzhou Evergrande. SIPG are three points behind the leaders. Guangzhou R&F beat Shandong Luneng 3-2 in friday's other fixture to move into eighth.
