China came from behind to beat Kyrgyz Republic 2-1 on Monday at the AFC Asian Cup, with coach Marcello Lippi needing a bit of help from an own-goal.
Lippi, who won the World Cup with Italy in 2006, is trying to win another title in what is likely to be his last major tournament. But it won’t be that easy to do it this year in the United Arab Emirates.
China entered the Asian Cup with one win in seven games, including disappointing draws against Palestine, India and Bahrain. They didn’t look much better at the start of Monday’s match.
Akhlidin Israilov gave Kyrgyz Republic the lead with a low left-foot shot from outside the box just before half-time.
But five minutes into the second half, Kyrgyz Republic goalkeeper Pavel Matiash jumped to handle what seemed to be an easy catch following a corner kick. He was under no pressure with two of his teammates around him, but the ball went into the net off his gloves.
Yu Dabao then angled in a left-footed shot in the 78th minute to ensure a fourth straight victory for China in their AFC Asian Cup opening game and improve their record against Kyrgyz Republic to three wins from three meetings.
Runners-up in 1984 and 2004, China face Philippines and South Korea in their remaining Group C games.
Later on Monday, tournament favourites South Korea play Philippines while Iran take on Yemen in Group D.