Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Chenzou: AFC Asian Cup 2015 hopefuls China and Palestine played out a 0-0 draw on Sunday as the two nations continued their preparations for the continent’s premier tournament.
The result saw China stretch their unbeaten run to an impressive nine games, while Palestine, who were without the services of Ashraf Nu'man and Imad Zatara, received a much needed psychological boost after losing to Uzbekistan in their last outing earlier in the month.
In a game of few chances, China, who have now not lost since June’s surprise 3-1 defeat at the hands of Mali, came closest to sealing the win with Guangzhou Evergrande captain Zheng Zhi hitting the post in the second period, and Yang Xu heading narrowly wide shortly after.
China have one more friendly to play – against Oman on January 5 – before they begin their AFC Asian Cup title tilt against Group B rivals and three-time champions Saudi Arabia on January 10.
They will then take on Uzbekistan four days later, before finishing off against neighbours DPR Korea on January 18.
Meanwhile, Palestine will face Iran on December 28 ahead of their Asian Cup Group D campaign opener against reigning champions and four-time winners Japan in Newcastle on January 12.
Photo: AFP