Dramatic Finish! Shanghai Dragons Edge Dinamo Minsk 3-2 in Home Opener

SAINT PETERSBURG — The Shanghai Dragons returned to SKA Arena with a statement, securing a thrilling 3-2 win over Dinamo Minsk on October 9 in the first of two consecutive home games. With Popugaev and Sutter resting, Chekhovich and Kuznetsov stepped into the lineup, while Andrei Kareev started in goal.

Early Pressure from Dinamo

Minsk controlled the early pace, pressuring Kareev and keeping the Dragons pinned in their own zone. Despite multiple quality shots and near-misses, including a post and a close-range try by Shipachev, Shanghai’s defensive resilience kept the game scoreless for much of the first period.

First Goals of the Game

The breakthrough came on the 18th minute power play. Merkley, Rendulic, and Quinney executed a beautiful three-man passing sequence, ending with Quinney beating Fucale in the near corner — 1-0 Dragons. Moments later, after a penalty on Moroz, a video review awarded Shanghai a second goal before the period ended — 2-0.

Dinamo Strikes Back

Early in the second, Sucese’s penalty led to a quick power-play goal by Meloche, cutting the lead to 2-1. The Dragons responded with sustained pressure and counterattacks, but were unable to extend the lead before Usov converted a one-on-one opportunity to tie the game 2-2 just before the intermission.

Defensive Resolve in the Third

The third period saw Minsk dominate possession, cycling their forwards and keeping Shanghai’s defense engaged. Kareev made several key stops, while the Dragons generated dangerous counters. With five minutes left, Shanghai successfully killed a penalty, and later, during their own power play, Rendulic blasted a one-timer past Fucale to restore the lead 3-2, preserving the victory despite Dinamo’s late pressure.

Next Up: The Dragons face Dinamo Minsk again on October 11 at SKA Arena. Tickets are available for purchase.

KHL Regular Season – FONBET
Shanghai Dragons – Dinamo Minsk 3-2 (2-0, 0-2, 1-0)

October 9, Saint Petersburg | SKA Arena | Attendance: 5,899
Goalies: Kareyev – Fucale

Scoring Summary:

1:0 – Quinney (Rendulic, Merkley) 18:16 PPG
2:0 – Merkley 19:40 PPG
2:1 – Meloche (Oullet) 22:40 PPG
2:2 – Usov (Oullet, Fucale) 39:35
3:2 – Rendulic (Clendening, Merkley) 59:01 PPG

Press Office, Shanghai Dragons