Croatian midfielder Franko Andrijasevic scored his first goal this season to help 10-man Zhejiang FC secure a 1-0 home win over Shenzhen Peng City in the Chinese Super League opening round on Sunday.
Zhejiang defender Sun Guowen was sent off with a red card in the 19th minute for a foul on visiting forward Thiago Andrade in front of the box.
Andrijasevic broke the deadlock in the 27th minute thanks to Dong Yu's cross from the right side.
Andrijasevic, 32, is in his fourth season at Zhejiang, having provided nine goals and six assists to the club's third-place finish last season.
The visitors had more attempts and possession, but failed to take their chances to earn a point.
"It's very hard from about the 15th minute we were with one man less, It is important to start the season with a victory, especially at home, so we are very happy," said the Croatian.
"We showed our character," he added.
Also on Sunday, Andre Luis scored a brace as Shanghai Shenhua defeated Meizhou Hakka 2-0 away.
The Brazilian striker, who joined Shanghai this season from Moreirense in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, had already helped the CSL powerhouse win the Super Cup before the league began.
Six teams earned three points after the first round, with Shandong Taishan leading the table with the most goals, followed by defending champions Shanghai Port and Beijing Guoan.
Program to boost cultural exchanges between China and France
Judge hits the tiebreaking single in 9th as Yankees rally to avoid sweep with 6
Oil consumption back to 2019 levels
Katie Couric tells Bill Maher that Trump support is born out of 'anti
At least 40 people die in Kenya after dam collapses
Oil consumption back to 2019 levels
Sudan's army chief urges for restoring membership in AU
Ellen Ash Peters, first female chief justice of Connecticut Supreme Court, dies at 94
Chinese defense minister holds video call with US counterpart
Bruno Tonioli, 68, reveals he needs Botox after feeling 'wrinkly' next to Britain's Got Talent co
Recently reinstated receiver Quintez Cephus signs a one
Panama's presidential frontrunner skips third and final debate ahead of May 5 election