Shanghai SIPG rally to beat Guangzhou R&F to lead CSL standings

Shanghai SPIG defeats Guangzhou R&F 5-2 in the third round of the Chinese Super League (CSL) in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, on March 18, 2018. [Photo: Imagine China]

Guangzhou R&F fumbled a two-goal cushion as Wu Lei scored four goals to help Shanghai SIPG stage an incredible come-from-behind victory 5-2 at Yuexiushan Stadium in the third round of the Chinese Super League (CSL) in Guangzhou on Sunday.

Within 10 minutes, Guangzhou R&F surged into a 2-0 lead through Eran Zahavi's half-volley and Xiao Zhi's header.

However, it became a show time for Wu Lei since then as the best native scorer of last five seasons completed a hat-trick within 12 minutes, helping SIPG turn around the game before half-hour mark.

SIPG extended the lead right into the second half. U23 player Chen Binbin burst into the box and pulled back for Hulk, as the Brazilian hitman set it up from the edge of the box and curled it into the net with his right foot.

The visiting side sealed the match in the 72nd minute when Hulk drew out two defenders and squared for totally unmarked Wu who found the net for the fourth time in the game. 

SIPG went up to the top of the standings with goal difference after the victory.