China off to winning start in Asian Games men's football

Wu Xi and Zhang Yuning set up a goal for each other as China came from behind to beat DPR Korea 2-1 in its opening men's football Group B match at the 2026 Asian Games on Wednesday.

Zhang Yuning (L) of China competes during the group B match of men's football between China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) at 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026 in Nagoya, Japan, Sept. 16, 2026. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

China fielded a side built around the team that finished runner-up at this year's AFC U23 Asian Cup, with overage players Zhang, Wu and Zhu Chenjie forming an experienced spine. Wu was making his first appearance for a Chinese national side in two years and eight months.

DPR Korea held the edge in possession and shots, but China proved more clinical, scoring twice from 10 attempts, including five on target, despite having less than 40 percent of possession.

DPR Korea took the initiative from the outset, while China looked to counterattack. Choe Kuk broke the deadlock in the 27th minute with a finish from inside the penalty area.

China drew level in the 44th minute when Zhang rose to head home Wu's cross from the left.

Both sides continued to create chances after the break before China took the lead in the 68th minute. Zhang's headed layoff on the edge of the penalty area found Wu, who timed his run to lob the advancing goalkeeper.

DPR Korea stepped up its attacks in search of an equalizer, while China made substitutions to shore up its defense. Goalkeeper Li Hao produced a crucial save in the 90th minute to preserve China's lead.

China will face Iran in its next group match on September 20.