JINAN, March 1 (Xinhua) -- Former Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini scored the game's only goal on his first start for Shandong Luneng, as the Chinese Super League (CSL) side finished their season opener with a 1-0 home victory over Beijing Renhe here on Friday.
CSL's 2019 season kicked off on Friday with four matches. Beijing Renhe started with new head coach and several new signings. Their forward Makhete Diop was really quick in attacking. Renhe's best chance faded away, as Diop's shot was denied by the crossbar at 24th minute into the match.
After a goalless first half, Luneng put more pressure up front. At 50th minute of the game, Luneng pushed forward and Fellaini collected a pass from Wu Xinghan in the area and put the ball in the back of the net. Neither side changed the score till the end.
When asked about the Chinese League, Fellaini thought it was difficult, but said he enjoyed the win.
"It was tough. I was injured in the past month, and my physical condition is not good enough," Fellaini commented on his performance, "I did not come here for holidays."
Luneng finished third last season and will compete in Group E of AFC Champions League after a qualifying round in February.
"It should be game by game, and we are confident to play better and better," Fellaini also talked about his target for the season.
Li Xiaopeng, head coach of Luneng, felt lucky for the goal, and revealed the reason for Fellaini's debut at season opener.
"The reason that he played the game was mostly for the coming AFC Champions League. We want him to have chemistry with the team as soon as possible."
