Agency :
Australia scored a last-minute goal to get a 1-1 draw against China in their final group game of the women’s Olympic football qualification tournament on Thursday.
Prior to the clash characterised by attack-mindedness, tireless running, close pressing, deft passes and brilliant goals, both sides had qualified for the last-round playoffs with two wins from as many matches.
The determination of China to win a better position in the playoffs was shown in their efforts against Australia as their well-organised and disciplined team play held the hosts’ attack at bay throughout 90 minutes.
China’s attacking genius flashed at the 86th minute when forward Tang Jiali collected a short pass from teammate Ma Jun and took a lateral run facing the gaol before firing a lethal strike past Australian goalkeeper Lydia Williams.
Australia, who managed four shots on goal against China’s seven, equalised on their last effort at the 92nd minute through midfielder Emily van Egmond who found herself unmarked before the box and sent a fierce shot into the left top corner of the goal.
Australia, who finished first on a better goal difference in Group B following the draw, will face Group A runners-up Vietnam in the two-legged playoffs, where China will play Group A top finisher South Korea.
Australia scored a last-minute goal to get a 1-1 draw against China in their final group game of the women’s Olympic football qualification tournament on Thursday.
Prior to the clash characterised by attack-mindedness, tireless running, close pressing, deft passes and brilliant goals, both sides had qualified for the last-round playoffs with two wins from as many matches.
The determination of China to win a better position in the playoffs was shown in their efforts against Australia as their well-organised and disciplined team play held the hosts’ attack at bay throughout 90 minutes.
China’s attacking genius flashed at the 86th minute when forward Tang Jiali collected a short pass from teammate Ma Jun and took a lateral run facing the gaol before firing a lethal strike past Australian goalkeeper Lydia Williams.
Australia, who managed four shots on goal against China’s seven, equalised on their last effort at the 92nd minute through midfielder Emily van Egmond who found herself unmarked before the box and sent a fierce shot into the left top corner of the goal.
Australia, who finished first on a better goal difference in Group B following the draw, will face Group A runners-up Vietnam in the two-legged playoffs, where China will play Group A top finisher South Korea.
