In a crucial Group B match of the AFC U17 Asian Cup on May 13, China’s U17 national team defeated Qatar 2-0, securing their first win of the tournament. The victory, combined with Japan’s 3-1 win over Indonesia, allowed China to finish second in the group with three points, advancing to the knockout stage on goal difference. This result also earns China a spot in the U17 World Cup for the first time since 2005.
The first half saw China take the lead in the 14th minute when He Sifan collected the ball on the left side of the penalty area, cut inside, and curled a beautiful shot into the net. In the 71st minute, substitute Zhang Bolin doubled the lead with a powerful header from a cross, securing the 2-0 victory.
China’s goalkeeper Qin Ziniu and the defense held firm against Qatar’s attacks, while the midfield and forwards created numerous chances. Zhao Songyuan was particularly active early on, testing the Qatari goalkeeper with several long-range efforts.
Key moments included He Sifan’s opening goal, Zhang Bolin’s decisive header, and a late scare when Qatar’s Yihya Fadhel shot just wide in the 73rd minute. China almost added a third goal in stoppage time but Wang Xiuhao’s shot was saved.
**Match Statistics**
**Lineups:**
China U17 (4-4-2): Qin Ziniu (GK); Jin Yucheng, Nan Zixun, Li Junpeng, Zhang Xuyao; Shuai Weihao (Wang Xiuhao 78′), Zhou Yunuo, Pan Chaowei, He Sifan (Xie Jin 56′, Xu Zhengpeng 88′); Zhao Songyuan (Zhang Bolin 56′), Wan Xiang (Wang Heyi 78′).
Substitutes not used: Kuang Zhaolei, Jiang Chengen, Bian Weihao, Peng Xianchen, Kong Xinuo, Liu Zhicheng, Zhu Yuxuan.
China will now face the Group A winner in the quarterfinals, with a chance to continue their historic run in the tournament.