**CSL Round 7: Dalian vs. Shanghai Premier League Highlights**

**Match Summary**

In a thrilling CSL Round 7 clash, Dalian edged past Shanghai with a 2-1 victory at Dalian Sports Center. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams creating chances and showcasing their attacking prowess. Dalian took the lead in the 15th minute through a well-taken goal by Wang Shenchao, who capitalized on a defensive error. Shanghai responded well, and their pressure almost paid off when striker Ceni (on loan from Corinthians) struck the post late in the first half.

**Key Performances**

For Dalian, the defense held firm, particularly in the second half, to contain Shanghai’s counterattacks. Midfielder Li Sheng stood out with his composure on the ball and crucial interceptions. Upfront, Wang Shenchao worked tirelessly and delivered the decisive goal. For Shanghai, despite the loss, their attacking trio of Ceni, Zhang Yuning, and Cao Yanning showed flashes of brilliance. Ceni, in particular, was a constant threat and should have scored on another day.

**Turning Point**

The game's turning point came in the 55th minute when Dalian’s second goal came from a perfectly executed set-piece. A well-timed run by Zhang Jiaqi saw him find Wang Shenchao, who slotted home to double the lead. This goal not only shifted the momentum but also demoralized Shanghai, who struggled to recover.

**Post-Match Reactions**

Dalian head coach Kim Bozhi expressed satisfaction with his team’s resilience, particularly highlighting the defensive effort and the importance of the three points in the race for qualification. Meanwhile, Shanghai’s boss Xu Hongwei acknowledged his side’s fighting spirit but admitted they needed to improve defensively to avoid such mistakes in the future.

**Conclusion**

Dalian’s 2-1 win over Shanghai was a hard-fought victory, but the result alone tells only part of the story. Both teams displayed their quality, and the match served as a reminder of the intense competition in the CSL. With the season reaching its latter stages, the battle for survival and qualification is heating up, and matches like this will be crucial in shaping the final standings.