China edged past Timor-Leste 2-1 in their AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifier opener, but the scoreline masked a number of warning signs for the squad.
Baihelalu Abuduwaili came close to scoring in the 19th minute with a close-range header that Timor-Leste goalkeeper Junildo Manuel Pereira brilliantly tipped over. It wasnt until the 42nd minute that Abuduwaili finally broke the deadlock, finishing Wang Shiqins free kick at the goalmouth. Moments before halftime, Wang Yudong doubled the lead to give China a cushion going into the break.
The second half saw Timor-Lestes Paulo Freitas pull one back in the 52nd minute, injecting fresh nerves. China wasted two golden chances soon after: Xiang Yuwangs shot cannoned off the crossbar, and a one-on-one was spurned in quick succession, highlighting issues in front of goal.
Elsewhere in Group D, Australia made headlines with a 14-0 dismantling of the Northern Mariana Islands, grabbing top spot on goal difference. With one win under their belt, China sits second in the group, and qualification hopes now hinge on sharper performances.
Chinas next test comes on Saturday against the Northern Mariana Islands, while Australia faces Timor-Leste. If China can tidy up in the final third, theyll be well placed to advance from Group D.
Reference(s):
China scrape past Timor-Leste in U23 Asian Cup qualifying opener
cgtn.com
