TASHKENT, March 3 (Xinhua) — Despite an early lead, China misplaced to Japan 2-1 with Naoki Kumata’s brace in 4 minutes of their AFC U20 Asian Cup Group D opener in Tashkent, Uzbekistan right here on Friday.
China broke the impasse simply six minutes into the sport at JAR Stadium, when heart again Liu Haofan headed dwelling from a nook by Afrden Asqer, which later turned out to be an personal aim by Hayato Tanaka.
Japan stored urgent excessive and compelled a number of saves from the Chinese goalkeeper Li Hao however did not degree the rating till the 66th minute, when Kumata headed within the equalizer.
Kumata took benefit of a free ball and added one other simply 4 minutes later after Chinese defenders didn’t clear the ball from shut vary.
Kuryu Matsuki nearly made it three for Japan from the spot after Kumata was introduced down by Li Suda contained in the field, however the penalty was denied by Li Hao simply minutes from time.
China will face Saudi Arabia at Bunyodkor Stadium on Monday, whereas Japan play Kyrgyzstan on the identical day.