Live now! U23 Asian Cup Final: China vs Japan, supported by CCTV, live score updates available!

On January 24th Beijing time, the U23 Asian Cup final is set with China facing the reigning champions Japan. After 22 years, these two teams meet again in a continental final. CCTV-5 is covering the full match live. The battle between the best defense and the best offense has begun. Who will come out on top? However, within just 20 minutes, we conceded two goals and fell into a desperate situation—truly a heartbreaking contest!

China’s performance in this Asian Cup has surprised everyone. Not only have they repeatedly made history, but they also finished the group stage undefeated in three matches, securing second place and advancing to the knockout rounds for the first time. They eliminated Uzbekistan in the quarterfinals to reach the last eight for the first time, then swept Vietnam in the semifinals to reach the final for the first time. As a fourth-tier team, going undefeated for five matches to reach the final is truly miraculous, especially keeping a clean sheet throughout. This success owes much to goalkeeper Li Hao’s heroic saves, which kept the goal intact and turned China’s defense into a fortress. Thanks to him, we now have a real chance to fight for the championship!

However, today’s final opponent is Japan, which puts us under tremendous pressure. They are the defending champions with undeniable strength, excellent ball control, quick and sharp teamwork, and a very powerful attack. Currently, Japan boasts an impressive five-match winning streak heading into the final, just one step away from defending their title. There is no doubt that Japan is the top favorite to win, and our real challenge begins now!

Therefore, this match is seen as a clash of opposing forces. How China can withstand Japan’s offense is crucial. The game is already underway, with China being dominated and quickly conceding two goals amid constant threats. Trailing 0-2, our hopes for the title have been dashed. It must be said that the gap between us and Japan is huge. Before the match, we dreamed of winning, but reality is harsh. Let’s just hope China avoids a disastrous defeat in the remainder of the game. Keep fighting!

Written by / Sports Fiction