China's under-23 men's football team narrowly defeated Timor-Leste 2-1 in their opening AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifier on Wednesday, securing three crucial points but exposing areas needing refinement ahead of tougher challenges.
Nail-Biting Start in Group D
Baihelamu Abuduwaili tested Timor-Leste's defense early, denied by goalkeeper Junildo Manuel Pereira in the 19th minute. The breakthrough came just before halftime, with Baihelamu heading home Wang Shiqin's free kick. Wang Yudong doubled China's lead moments later, capitalizing on defensive disarray.
Second-Half Jitters
Timor-Leste's Paulo Freitas reignited the contest with a 52nd-minute strike, forcing China into a nervy defensive stance. Missed opportunities by Xiang Yuwang—a crossbar strike and a failed one-on-one—kept the scoreline tight, highlighting China's need for sharper finishing.
Group D Dynamics
Australia's 14-0 thrashing of the Northern Mariana Islands placed them atop the group on goal difference. China now faces the Northern Mariana Islands on Saturday, while Australia meets Timor-Leste. Qualification hopes hinge on improving goal margins and consistency.
The result underscores China's potential but signals caution for a team aiming to advance in Asia's competitive youth football landscape.
