China's faint hopes of qualifying for next year's World Cup finals in Russia finally ended on Tuesday, despite securing the victory they needed in Qatar. Syria's draw in Iran and Uzbekistan's draw with South Korea meant that two late goals to secure a 2-1 win in Doha were ultimately futile in China's desperate bid to snatch a play-off place for next year's tournament.
China rallied after falling behind early in the second half and even overcame the sending-off of their captain Zheng Zhi. Akrim Afif put the home side ahead in the 46th minute, scoring from close range. But the visitors equalised in the 74th minute when Xiao Zhi powered home.
Any chance of a win seemed remote however just six minutes later when Zheng was red-carded after he fouled Afif, who was clean through on China's goal. But just two minutes later substitute Wu Lei scored to give China the lead and set up a dramatic finale.
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