Football: Drogba shines on Shanghai debut

Expertly setting up the equalising goal in a 1-1 draw away to Guangzhou R&F.

Didier Drogba made an instant impact in his first game for Chinese Super League side Shanghai Shenhua, expertly setting up the equalising goal in a 1-1 draw away to Guangzhou R&F, according to the Times of India. The former Chelsea striker started the game on the bench but came on after the interval, almost scoring with his first touch of the ball - an outrageous 40-yard free kick which Guangzhou goal-keeper Cheng Yuelei tipped wide. Earlier, Shenhua struggled to gain momentum in the first half after falling behind to an unfortunate own goal by Brazilian defender Moises on 21 minutes, but the introduction of the Ivorian instantly transformed the visitors’ fortunes. Drogba’s biggest contribution came in the 68th minute with an exquisite through ball which found Shanghainese playmaker Cao Yunding, who rounded the keeper to equalise for his side.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 24^th, 2012.