China’s Under-16 football team kicked off the CFA Team China International Tournament with a dramatic 2-1 win over Saudi Arabia on Wednesday in Hohhot, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
The hosts showcased aggressive offense from the outset, mounting an early threat in the fourth minute with a series of crisp passes inside the box. Although the initial attack didn’t yield a goal, China struck first eight minutes later. Goalkeeper Xu Zengfu launched a long pass that Kuang Zhaolei headed to He Saifan. Cutting into the box, He skillfully chipped the ball over the goalkeeper, giving China a 1-0 lead.
Trailing behind, Saudi Arabia intensified their attacks. In the 68th minute, Nawaf Abdullah leveled the score with a close-range finish, bringing the match to a tense 1-1.
Undeterred, China ramped up their offensive efforts. Their persistence paid off during stoppage time when, in the 91st minute, Xie Jin sent a precise cross from the right wing to Shuai Weihao, who headed the ball into the net. The late goal secured a thrilling 2-1 victory for the home side.
China is set to face Vietnam on Friday as the tournament continues.
