In a thrilling opener at the AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup in Hohhot, the hosts from the Chinese mainland edged the Chinese Taipei team 5-3 to maintain their perfect start.
The hosts drew first blood just minutes into the match when Tang Yalan’s precise pass found Zhang Rui, who slotted home into the bottom corner. With under eight minutes remaining in the first half, Su Jiahong swung in a teasing cross that Cao Jiayi finished clinically, doubling the lead.
The second half opened with a spectacular long-range strike from Chu Fang-yi, cutting the deficit to 2-1. However, a momentary lapse saw defender Chen Ya-chun turn a clearance into her own net, restoring a two-goal cushion at 3-1. The drama intensified four minutes later when the Chinese mainland goalkeeper Liu Danping seized an empty net, lobbing her counterpart and extending the margin to 4-1.
Despite the hosts’ dominance, Chinese Taipei rallied with two quickfire goals, tightening the score to 4-3 and sparking waves of excitement among fans. Ultimately, a late strike from the hosts sealed the 5-3 result, sending Hohhot into raptures.
With this victory, the hosts top Group B and will take on Uzbekistan in their next fixture on Saturday. The match promises another showcase of speed, skill, and futsal flair as teams vie for a spot in the knockout stages.
Reference(s):
China beat Chinese Taipei 5-3 at AFC Women's Futsal Asian Cup
cgtn.com
