In a thrilling Group A encounter at the AFC U20 Asian Cup, the host nation China secured their place in the quarterfinals with a commanding 5-2 victory over Kyrgyzstan on Saturday.
China’s journey to the last eight was marked by strategic gameplay and standout performances, particularly from substitute Zhu Pengyu, who netted two crucial goals. The match kicked off with Liu Chengyu breaking the deadlock in the 13th minute, capitalizing on a precise cross from Wang Yudong, assisted by Kuai Jiwen's deep left-side pass.
Kyrgyzstan fought back when Umar Madaminov equalized in the 25th minute with a skillful left-footed strike into the far corner. However, China quickly regained the lead just before halftime as Wang Yudong confidently converted a penalty, outsmarting the Kyrgyz goalkeeper.
The second half saw Kyrgyzstan’s challenges diminish early when Artem Istrashkin received a second yellow card, leaving his team with ten men. Seizing the opportunity, Mao Weijie extended China’s advantage with a decisive header shortly after.
Kyrgyzstan briefly revived their hopes through Yryskeldi Madanov’s header in the 65th minute, but China's Zhu Pengyu nearly struck again five minutes later, with his header hitting the crossbar. Demonstrating his clutch performance, Zhu sealed the victory in the 80th minute by dribbling into the box and slotting the ball past the goalkeeper. He completed his brace in injury time, heading in Wang Yifan's cross to finalize the 5-2 triumph.
Meanwhile, Australia also secured their quarterfinal spot with a 3-1 win over Qatar. With both Australia and China victorious in their first two group matches, they have firmly established their presence in the final eight of the tournament.
Reference(s):
China storm into AFC U20 Asian Cup quarters after defeating Kyrgyzstan
cgtn.com
