China edge Australia 1-0 to reach semifinals at AFC
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Hosts China edged Australia 1-0 at their Group B last round match to reach semifinals at the AFC (Asian Football Confederation) Women's Asian Cup in Chengdu on Sunday.
China were aggressive as they took control of the field and launched frequent attacks, while Australia, who have already qualified for the semifinals on Friday with one match spare, didn't send their strongest squad.
"It's quite hot today," said Shang Ruihua, coach of the Chinese team. "Although we took the match, we didn't play well. The players were quite nervous in the field and didn't play to their normal level."
"We missed a lot of chances," he added. "I think Australia did a very good job today."
Midfielder Zhang Rui scored the only goal of the hosts as she made a superb shot in the 10th minute on her teammate's fine pass.
The hosts missed the chance to enlarge the lead when Han Duan's low shot was saved by Australia's goalkeeper Lydia Williams, three minutes before Sun Ling's tight-angled shot was rejected by Williams.
China's goalie Zhang Yanru also produced a fine save in the 52nd minute to reject Sarah Walsh's powerful shot.
Forward Han Duan made a solo run in the 56th minute but missed the target as the ball went narrowly wider.
Australia launched several counter attacks in the end of the match but failed to score.
"Our aim is to make the semifinals, and we have already made it on Friday," said Australia coach Thomas Dorby Sermanni. "I am satisfied with my team."
