China secures quarterfinal berth in Women's Asian Cup

Happy birthday, Wang Shuang! Photo c/o Asian Football Confederation

China cruised their way to a 7-0 victory over Iran in AFC Women's Asian Cup action on Sunday, snapping up the first quarterfinal spot in the tournament.

Fresh from their 4-0 victory over Chinese-Taipei on Thursday, the Steel Roses sought to ensure the same outcome was in play, whilst Iran looked to build from their goalless draw against hosts India.

And China did not take long to force the issue.

Zohreh Koudaei, named as the player of the game of India-Iran, was tested early by the Chinese attack. Wang Shanshan had two attempts saved by the Zobahan keeper in the first fifteen minutes.

But China finally cracked the puzzle in the 27th minute, as Wang Shuang's shot from the edge of the box found the bottom corner to put the eight-time champions ahead.

They doubled a lead just before halftime, as Zhang Xin set up Xiao Yuyi in the 43rd minute.

Iran hoped to change things up by inserting their teenage sensation Negin Zandi, but China managed to extend their lead further, as Li Mengwen was fouled inside the area, leading to Wang Shuang converting a penalty in the 49th minute to make it 3-0.

The rout became officially on with Xiao Yuyi serving up captain Wang Shanshan twice in a span of four minutes to turn it into a 5-0 blowout, with substitute Tang Jiali taking just four minutes to score her own brace in the 78th and 82nd minute.

The win, combined with the recent developments forcing India's withdrawal from the Women's Asian Cup due to COVID-19 complications, means they are officially the top team in Group A.

Iran's hopes to make the quarterfinals are still possible, as they face Chinese-Taipei on Wednesday needing a win to advance.