The 7-member Chinese Junior team put on a heroic performance, beating Japan 2-1 to win the 3rd place playoff of the Mohmmad Al Amin Cup.

 

Hosts Iran lifted the trophy with a 5-4 extra-time victory over Iraq.

 

China enjoyed a comfortable 2-0 advantage through most of the first half before a Japanese striker was fouled inside the penalty box only three minutes before the half whistle.

 

Japan scored its only goal through the penalty while a Chinese player was sent off due to the foul.

 

China maintained the lead into the second half. But referee error calls sent off another three Chinese players, leaving the team with only seven players on the pitch, a rare scene in the international arena.

 

The persistent Chinese squad struggled to keep its lead until the final whistle to stand on the podium together with Iran and Iraq.

 

A total of seven teams took part in the Trustworthy Cup tournament.

 

(CRI May 12, 2006)