In goal, Bao Yaxiong, the core goalkeeper of Shenhua, is still guarding the door of the team; as for the backline, Coach Slutsky will continue to use the classic four-guard system according to the established strategy. It is reported that the first four defenders will be Chen Jinyi, Jiang Shenglong, Jin Shunkai and Eddie Francis. Of the four, Jiang Shenglong and Jin Shunkai will team up to form the center back pairing, while Chen Zhenyi and Eddie Francis will play as wing backs.
In the midfield line, French midfielder Ibrahim Amadou will undoubtedly be Shenhua's main back, responsible for interceptions and ball breaks. Alongside him will be the experienced veteran Wu Xi to form the double back. In front of these two midfielders, Joao Teixeira, the soul of the midfield, will continue to dispatch the ball up front and control the rhythm of Shenhua's offense. Partnering them on the wings will be Brazilian outside back Andre Luiz and decorated veteran Yu Hanchao.
As for the forward line, Swiss senior winger Mallet is expected to continue as the team's No. 1 striker, charging for Shenhua and fueling the team's offense.
Accordingly, Shanghai Shenhua's starting lineup against Henan is predicted to be as follows: Bao Yaxiong; Chen Jinyi, Jiang Shenglong, Jin Shunkai, Eddie Francis; Wu Xi, Ibrahim Amadou; Andre Luiz, Yu Hanchao, Joao Teixeira; Malelei.
