In the latest U23 Asian Cup qualifier, China achieved a 2-1 win against East Timor, getting off to a winning start.

Despite China’s 2-1 victory over East Timor and gaining three points, this may not be a positive outcome and could result in elimination. The qualification format advances only the top team from each group plus the best four second-placed teams. The group consists of Australia, East Timor, and the Northern Mariana Islands. This afternoon, Australia defeated the Northern Mariana Islands 14-0. Judging by the U23 national team’s performance tonight, finishing second in the group is likely, but beating Australia is improbable. As the second-placed team, China will need to accumulate a high goal difference. Observing other groups, most teams have won by large margins.

Therefore, the Chinese team must not only win but also achieve a large margin of victory. Otherwise, even with six points, they might still be eliminated, which would be quite embarrassing!