China secure U17 World Cup qualification after 21-year absence

China booked its place in the quarterfinals of the AFC U17 Asian Cup with a 2-0 win over Qatar on Tuesday, also securing qualification for this year's FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar.

It marked China's return to the premier U17 event for the first time since 2005.

Needing a win to keep its qualification hopes alive, China made a strong start and threatened repeatedly in the opening stages.

He Sifan gave China the lead in the 14th minute, latching onto Wan Xiang's pass and firing a powerful strike into the top corner.

China continued to dominate possession and create chances, while Qatar's first effort on target came late in the first half through Dhiaeddine Larbi but was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Qin Ziniu.

China doubled the lead in the 71st minute when Zhang Bolin headed in Wan's set-piece delivery, and held on to win.