China beats Australia 1-0 in AFC U23 Asian Cup

(ECNS) -- China beat Australia 1-0 on Sunday in its second Group D match at the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup in Riyadh of Saudi Arabia, securing all three points.

Chinese player Peng Xiao said after the game that Australia was a strong opponent, but every member of the Chinese team fought like a warrior on the pitch. 

This photo released on Jan. 9, 2026 shows Team China. (Photo from Chinese Football Association)

In the opening round, Australia came from behind to beat Thailand and briefly topped Group D, with China and Iraq each earning one point.

In the 43rd minute, China's set piece was blocked by Australia's defense, but Peng fired home from close range in a scramble, giving China a 1–0 lead.

In the 62nd minute, a Chinese defender slipped, allowing an Australian player to follow up with a close-range shot, but Chinese goalkeeper Li Hao made a superb save. One minute later, Li denied Australia again with another outstanding stop from a powerful strike. China then made substitutions to shore up the defense.

In stoppage time, Australia found the net, but VAR (Video Assistant Referee) ruled the goal out for handball. China held on to their 1–0 advantage until the final whistle, moving to four points and the top of the group after playing one match earlier.

In last year's Asian qualifiers, China and Australia drew 0-0, advancing to the finals together.

According to the schedule, China will face Thailand on Wednesday in their final group-stage match.

(By Gong Weiwei)