As the Chinese Super League (CSL) continues to heat up, two of its most prominent teams - Shenhua and Shanghai Shenhua - have been making significant progress towards securing their place in the title race.
With just three rounds remaining in the regular season, both teams sit within touching distance of the top spot. Shenhua currently sits in second place with 47 points, while Shanghai Shenhua is just one point behind them at third position.
This close finish has put pressure on both teams to maintain their form throughout the final stretch of the season. With each game coming down to the wire, every goal scored or conceded can make all the difference.
For Shenhua, this is a crucial period as they look to secure a place in the playoffs for the first time since 2016. They have already secured a place in the last eight but will need to win their final three matches if they want to make it to the semi-finals.
Meanwhile, Shanghai Shenhua also face a tough task in order to maintain their lead over their rivals. They have won four out of their last five games, but they must now hope that Shenhua don't slip up and lose any of their remaining matches.
Despite the challenges ahead, both teams are determined to push forward and secure their place in the playoffs. With just three rounds left, anything can happen and it's anyone's game. However, the pressure is certainly on these two teams to perform well and secure their spots in the title race.