China's Under-22 national team has lifted the International Invitation Tournament title in Yancheng with a dramatic 1-1 draw against Vietnam. The victory, achieved with an undefeated record of one win and two draws, marks a significant milestone for the team.
In a match filled with nail-biting moments, Kuai Jiwen nearly gave the hosts an early advantage when his shot struck the bar in the first half. However, it was Nguyen Quoc Viet who broke the deadlock for the visitors in the 31st minute.
The turning point came in the 71st minute when Mutellip Iminqari was fouled in the box, earning China a crucial penalty kick. Afrden Asqer stepped up to convert the penalty and restore balance to the game.
Despite facing a setback after Zhang Yixuan received a second yellow card and the team had to play with one less player, China's disciplined defensive performance kept the visitors at bay. With prior results of a 0-0 draw against Uzbekistan and a 1-0 victory over South Korea, the team finished the tournament with five points and claimed home soil glory.
This achievement not only highlights the emerging talent within China's youth football but also resonates with sports enthusiasts, young global citizens, and digital nomads who follow international sports trends. The U22 team’s resilient spirit and strategic play set the stage for an exciting future in international football.
Reference(s):
China win U22 International Invitation Tournament title in Yancheng
cgtn.com
