China was defeated 2-0 by defending champions Japan in the 2025 EAFF E-1 Football Championship in Yongin, South Korea. Japan scored early through Mao Hosoya in the 11th minute and secured the win with a long-range goal by Henry Heroki Mochizuki in the 63rd minute.
China had a notable chance when Zhang Yuning’s shot was saved, but they couldn’t capitalize. This loss followed a 3-0 defeat to South Korea in their opening match.
After the game, Zhang said the team showed improved physicality and defensive aggression, highlighting the value of the experience for younger players. Caretaker coach Dejan Djurdjevic called the tournament a fresh start for the team, praising the promising performances of new players and signaling a positive direction for China’s future development.
Credit: CGTN