Australia edged out China with a 2-1 victory in the final group stage match of the AFC Under-20 Asian Cup in Shenzhen, securing the top spot in Group A.
Both teams rotated their line-ups after already confirming their places in the knockout stages. The Young Socceroos made the early strike in the 23rd minute, taking advantage of a goalkeeper error by China's Liu Qiwei, as Medin Memeti skillfully nutmegged him. Just two minutes later, Louis Agosti doubled the lead with a deflected shot off Qi Qiancheng, making it 2-0.
China fought back before the halftime whistle, with Kuai Jiwen volleying in Xu Junchi's cross to make it 2-1. The second half saw the hosts dominate the field, but substitute Mao Weijie missed a golden opportunity in the 61st minute, heading wide from six yards out.
Despite China's sustained pressure in the latter stages, Australia held firm to secure a 2-1 win, finishing the group stage with a perfect record, while China advanced as runners-up.
Reference(s):
Australia edge China to seal perfect group stage at U20 Asian Cup
cgtn.com
