AFTER back-to-back draws at the start of the Asian Cup, China likely needs at least a point against host and defending champion Qatar to have a chance of advancing to the knockout stage.

A 0-0 draw with Lebanon on Tuesday left both nations’ hopes of reaching the round of 16 in the balance.

In the first round, China had a 0-0 draw with Tajikistan, while Lebanon lost to host Qatar 3-0. Both China and Lebanon were desperately seeking a win to keep their chances of advancing to the knockout stage alive.

In the 45th minute, China’s forward Zhang Yuning unleashed two consecutive strikes in the penalty area, which were saved by Lebanese goalkeeper Ostafa Matar.

Lebanon was close to open scoring in the stoppage time of first half, but Hassan Maatouk’s right footed shot from outside the box went off the crossbar in a counterattack.

The Lebanese side hit the woodwork again in the 52nd minute by Hasan Srour following a combination play with Bassel Jradi.

In the 65th minute, Chinese striker Wu Lei had the best opportunity of match, but his close range shot was cleared before the goal line, after Dai Weijun crossed the ball into the goal area.

After the first two rounds, Qatar leads the group with six points, China ranks second with two points, Tajikistan and Lebanon have one point each.

China will take on Qatar in the third round next Monday, while Lebanon plays against Tajikistan at the same time.

(SD-Xinhua)