China secured the championship title at the Yongchuan International Tournament with a decisive 2-0 victory over Vietnam on Tuesday in Chongqing Municipality. The win marks a triumphant return for the Chinese women’s football team after a five-month hiatus from international play.
Both teams entered the match undefeated, having each bested Uzbekistan—China with a 3-0 win on October 26 and Vietnam with a 2-0 victory on October 23. With the stakes high, the match promised an exciting showdown for the tournament trophy.
The breakthrough came in the 41st minute when Zhang Xin capitalized on a well-placed long pass inside the box, deftly controlling the ball before netting the opener for China. Despite making multiple substitutions in the second half, Coach Ante Milicic’s side maintained their composure against Vietnam’s mounting pressure.
In a dramatic turn during stoppage time, Vietnam’s defense faltered, leading to an own goal by Tran Thi Thu Thao, sealing the 2-0 win for China.
Coach Milicic expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, particularly their ability to keep a clean sheet. “The result sent a positive signal,” he told reporters, highlighting the team’s strong defensive display.
Midfielder Tang Jiali reflected on the team’s progress under the new coach. “The new coach has brought us a new atmosphere, new style of play, and new tactics,” she said. “Little by little, we have been trying to do what he requests on the field. I hope we can play with better excitement and coordination in the future.”
The victory not only brings home the tournament title but also boosts morale as the team prepares for upcoming international fixtures, signaling a promising direction for China’s women’s football.
Reference(s):
China beat Vietnam to win Yongchuan International Tournament
cgtn.com
