In the first Shanghai derby of the 2025 season, which also marked the 33rd meeting between the two teams, Shanghai SIPG, plagued by injuries, was unable to secure a win at home after leading for 77 minutes, ultimately drawing with Shanghai Shenhua. Adding to their woes, Li Shuai received his second yellow card and was sent off during injury time in the second half, further depleting SIPG's already injury-ridden squad.

Despite the challenges, SIPG's head coach Muscat persisted with an attacking style of play in the Chinese Super League this season. With key players like Wu Lei sidelined and high-profile foreign recruits departing, SIPG managed to accumulate 10 points in the first four rounds, jointly topping the CSL standings with their city rivals, Shenhua. This set the stage for a highly anticipated Shanghai derby at the start of the new season.

Muscat, despite a lower winning rate against Shenhua in recent years, stuck to his fast-paced attacking tactics, believing that Shenhua's high press could be exploited. Emphasizing the need for focus and commitment to their style of play, Muscat stressed the balance between risk and reward within the team.

The match drew 24,263 spectators to the Pudong SAIC Stadium on a clear day during the Qingming Festival, maintaining the fiery atmosphere typical of the Shanghai derby. SIPG took an early lead within the first five minutes through Liu Ruofan's goal, fulfilling Muscat's pre-game emphasis on starting strong against their formidable local rivals.

Shenhua, however, were not to be outdone, showcasing some impressive attacks throughout the game. Despite hitting the woodwork twice, they finally equalized in the 82nd minute through Yu Hanchao's header, much to the delight of their fans. The match ended in a draw, with Shenhua pushing for a late victory but settling for a point.

While losing a two-point lead late in the game was disappointing for SIPG, the silver lining was that both teams maintained their joint leadership atop the CSL standings with the same points and goal difference. The status quo remained unchanged, at least for now.

Derbies always carry a unique intensity, and beyond tactical preparations, Muscat specifically addressed the emotional aspect with his players before facing Shenhua. Concerned about potential on-field confrontations and misconduct, he urged his team to stay composed and control their emotions amidst the heightened atmosphere.

However, despite prior warnings, SIPG still fell into disciplinary issues during the match, with several yellow and red cards shown. Muscat expressed frustration post-match over the officiating and highlighted inconsistencies in card decisions, feeling aggrieved by certain calls.

Amidst these challenges, emerging talent Kuai Jiwen continued his integration into the first team, making the bench but not seeing game time in this critical derby clash. While eager to contribute, Kuai remained patient, stating his readiness to seize opportunities as determined by the coach's decisions.