In a behind-closed-doors friendly in Dubai, the Chinese mainland secured a 3-1 victory over Kuwait, serving a feast of football action even without a stadium crowd. The match turned into a first-half fireworks show, with Li Lei opening the scoring, an unexpected own goal from Kuwait boosting the tally, and Behram Abduweli adding a third before the break. ⚽🎉
The game took on extra meaning as 30-year-old naturalized star Sai Erjiniao (Serginho) made his national team debut on his birthday! Previously holding dual ties with Italy and his native Brazil, he now starts a new chapter with his CSL club Beijing Guoan after five years with Changchun Yatai. Alongside debutant Wang Yudong, their introductions have already sparked excitement among fans, especially after Sai shared a snapshot holding his new Chinese identification card on Sina Weibo.
Both teams introduced several substitutes in the second half, with Kuwait finding a late goal to avoid a complete shutout. Nonetheless, the early dominance by the Chinese mainland set a confident tone for the friendly.
Looking ahead, the team is set to leave Dubai for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as they prepare for a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup AFC qualification match against Saudi Arabia on March 20. They will then host Australia in Hangzhou on March 25. With the Chinese mainland currently at the bottom of Group C with six points, every game is a step towards climbing the table and igniting fans’ hopes for the future. Stay tuned for more thrilling football action! 🔥
Reference(s):
China beat Kuwait 3-1 in friendly as naturalized Serginho makes debut
cgtn.com
