Chinese U-22 men's football team wins championship in Yancheng. Adversity tests have revealed the youthful brilliance.

the Chinese U-22 men's national team drew 1:1 with Vietnam. With an unbeaten record of 1 win, 2 draws, and 5 points, they lifted the Yancheng International Football Invitational Tournament trophy for the first time.

This victory not only provides a significant morale boost as the team prepares for the U-23 Asian Cup, but also showcased the resilience and potential of the young players under immense pressure.

Serving as a crucial warm-up tournament for the U-23 Asian Cup, China faced three Asian powerhouses: South Korea, Vietnam, and Uzbekistan.

In the opening match against physically imposing Uzbekistan, China held their opponents to a goalless draw. Goalkeeper Li Hao made several crucial saves,

and the defensive line displayed tenacious fighting spirit. In the second round against South Korea, Liu Haofan's dramatic last-minute winner became a tournament classic, securing a 1:0 victory and ending their opponent's unbeaten streak.

In the final match against Vietnam, despite Zhang Yixuan being sent off after two yellow cards resulting in a red, a brilliant piece of play saw Mutalifu win a penalty which Aifeierding converted, sealing the 1:1 draw and clinching the title based on superior total points.

Head coach Antonio stated after the tournament: "The players demonstrated excellent adaptability in high-intensity competition. From the defensive battle against Uzbekistan,

to the team coordination for the winning goal against Korea, and the resilient defense while a man down, each match provided invaluable growth experience." Notably,

China conceded only 1 goal throughout the tournament, showing a marked improvement in defensive stability. The organizational play of midfield maestro Tao Qianglong and the dribbling prowess of winger Aifeierding were particularly outstanding.

Looking back at the recent journey of the U-22 national team, this youth squad formed in 2012 has endured numerous international tournaments. From exiting the 2014 U-22 Asian Cup with two consecutive losses,

to withdrawing from the 2021 U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers, and now winning this invitational tournament, the team is steadily emerging from its trough. The triumph in Yancheng not only affirms the ability of the young players,

but also lays a solid foundation of confidence for the upcoming U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers.

With the championship trophy secured, the Chinese U-22 men's national team will carry this honor and experience forward. They will continue refining their tactical system,

striving with full force towards their objectives in the 2025 U-23 Asian Cup and the Hangzhou Asian Games. The growth trajectory of this young generation may well become a vital chapter in Chinese football's quest to return to its glory days.