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Shanghai SIPG crowned Chinese Super League champions

Shanghai Shenhua relinquished their lead with just one matchday remaining

SIPG and Shenhua finished level on points, but SIPG's superior goal difference saw them crowned champions

Shanghai SIPG were crowned champions of the Chinese Super League on Sunday after their rivals Shanghai Shenhua surrendered their lead with just one matchday remaining. SIPG and Shenhua finished level on points, but SIPG's superior goal difference saw them crowned champions. Shenhua needed to beat Jiangsu Suning on the final day of the season and hope that SIPG lost to Beijing Guoan in order to win the title. But Shenhua were held to a 2-2 draw by Jiangsu, while SIPG beat Beijing 2-0. The result means that SIPG have won their first Chinese Super League title, while Shenhua have now finished runners-up for the second time in three seasons. SIPG's victory is a major triumph for manager Vitor Pereira, who has guided the team to their first major trophy in his first season in charge. The Portuguese coach has instilled a winning mentality in the team and has been able to get the best out of his players, including Brazilian forward Hulk, who has scored 22 goals in the league this season. Shenhua, meanwhile, will be disappointed to have come so close to winning the title but will take heart from their performances this season. The team has played some excellent football under manager Quique Sanchez Flores and will be hoping to challenge for the title again next season. The Chinese Super League is one of the most competitive leagues in Asia, and this season's title race has been one of the most exciting in recent years. SIPG and Shenhua have both played some excellent football this season and deserve credit for their achievements.