In a tense showdown at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on May 13, China’s U17 national team defeated Qatar 2-0 in the final group stage match of the AFC U17 Asian Cup. This victory earned them their first win of the tournament and secured a spot in the quarterfinals as group runners-up, marking the team’s first appearance at the U17 World Cup in 21 years.
Entering the match with two consecutive losses—0-1 to Indonesia and 1-2 to Japan—China faced elimination unless they won by at least two goals. Head coach Fushimi Atsushi deployed a 4-4-2 formation, with Wan Xiang and Zhao Songyuan leading the attack. The midfield consisted of He Sifan, Zhou Yunuo, Pan Chaowei, and Shuai Weihao, while Zhang Xuyao, Nan Zixun, Li Junpeng, and Jin Yucheng formed the defense. Qin Ziniu started in goal.
From the opening whistle, China pressed aggressively, creating early chances through Zhao Songyuan’s powerful long-range shots. In the 14th minute, Wan Xiang delivered a precise cross into the box, where He Sifan calmly cut inside and slotted home to make it 1-0. Despite several more opportunities, China held onto the lead at halftime.
In the second half, Qatar pushed for an equalizer, but China’s defense held firm, with the goalkeeper making crucial saves. The breakthrough came in the 71st minute when Wan Xiang’s cross found Zhang Bolin, who headed home to double China’s lead. The match ended 2-0.
With this result, China finished second in Group B with three points, level with Japan and Indonesia but advancing on goal difference. Japan beat Indonesia 3-1 in the other group match.
China’s qualification for the U17 World Cup is a historic milestone, marking the first time any Chinese men’s youth team has reached a global tournament since 2005. That year, the U17 team, featuring future stars like Wang Dalei, Yu Dabao, and Yang Xu, reached the quarterfinals in Peru.
After 21 years and numerous setbacks, China’s U17 team has rewritten the script, turning despair into triumph. Their next challenge is a quarterfinal clash against Saudi Arabia on May 16 at 1:00 AM Beijing time. Fans are eager to see if these young talents can continue their remarkable journey.
