China powers past 10-man Vietnam to make AFC U23 Asian Cup final for first time

China stormed into the final of the AFC U23 Asian Cup for the first time after routing Vietnam 3-0 in the semifinals in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

Vietnam created a great chance in the 24th minute, with Khuat Van Khang forcing a brilliant save from Li Hao with a free-kick. The Chinese keeper kept up his run of clean sheets at this year's tournament when he was at his best to keep out Nguyen Cong Phuong moments later.  

After the break, China took the lead. Peng Xiao recovered from being jostled to the ground to nod in. The PRC doubled their advantage in the 52nd minute. Xiang Yuwang showed brilliant composure to control Kuai Jiwen's pass before wrong-footing three defenders to make it 2-0.  

In the 73rd minute, China thought they had their third. But Peng's deflected effort was overturned by VAR because Li Zhenquan was caught offside. Vietnam were then reduced to 10-men after Pham Ly Duc received a straight red in the aftermath of the disallowed goal.  

Behram Abduweli cut back for Wang Yudong to seal the victory in injury time. China will take on defending champion Japan in the final on Saturday.