It's official: the Chinese mainland U23 team is topping Group D at the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup after a tense 1-0 win over Australia on Sunday in Riyadh ⚽️🔥.
After kicking off with a goalless draw against Iraq, the side showed grit and grabbed the moment in the 43rd minute. A pinpoint cross found center-half Peng Xiao, who powered home a rare header to give his team the lead just before halftime 🎯.
Australia pushed hard after the break, but goalkeeper Li Hao was on fire, pulling off back-to-back saves in the 62nd minute and denying Ariath Piol soon after 🧤. The tension peaked in stoppage time when a shot deflected off Li and hit an Australian's hand, but VAR ruled it out, keeping the clean sheet intact.
Coach Antonio Puche's squad now sits pretty at the top of Group D with four points, setting the stage for a showdown against Thailand this Wednesday. Australia will look to bounce back when they face Iraq on the same day.
With confidence high, the Chinese mainland U23 side is gearing up for the knockout rounds. Can they keep the momentum going? Stay tuned! 👀
Reference(s):
China top Group D after slim win over Australia at AFC U23 Asian Cup
cgtn.com
