China beats Kyrgyzstan 2-1 in 2019 AFC Asian Cup Group C match

With coach Marcello Lippi in charge and needing a bit of help from an own-goal, China came from behind to beat Kyrgyzstan 2-1 Monday at the Asian Cup.

China's midfielder Zhang Chengdong (C) fights for the ball with Kirghyzstan's midfielder Bekzhan Sagynbaev (R) during the 2019 AFC Asian Cup football macth between Kyrgyzstan and China at the Kalifa bin Zayed stadiuam in al-Ain on Jan 7, 2019. [Photo: VCG]

The 70-year-old 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. It didn't look much better at the start of Monday's match.

Akhlidin Israilov gave Kyrgyzstan the lead with a low left-foot shot from outside the box just before halftime.

China beats Kyrgyzstan 2-1 in 2019 AFC Asian Cup Group C match. [Photo: VCG]

But five minutes into the second half, Kyrgyzstan 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-footer in the 78th minute to ensure the fourth straight victory for China in its Asian Cup opening game and improve its record against Kyrgyzstan to 3-0.

A runner-up in 1984 and 2004, China faces the Philippines and South Korea in its remaining Group C games.

Later Monday, tournament-favorite South Korea plays the Philippines while Iran faces Yemen in Group D.