China enjoy breakthrough journey to first-ever AFC U23 Asian Cup final

During China's journey through the AFC U23 Asian Cup, the team fought hard against every challenge, rekindling the country's hopes for greater success in football.

China finished second in Group D with one win and two draws, reaching the knockout phase for the first time without conceding a goal. Peng Xiao contributed the first and the only goal for China during the opening stage, when they beat Australia 1-0 in their second match.

"Australia are formidable opponents, but our entire team fought like warriors on the pitch," Peng said after the game. "My goal is the result of our collective effort. This goal belongs to Team China, not to me personally."

In the knockout phase opener against Uzbekistan, Chinese goalkeeper Li Hao made a crucial save in the fourth round of a penalty shootout, sealing the victory and sending the squad into the semifinals.

They went on to defeat Vietnam 3-0, clinching the men's national football team's first trip to a continental final in 22 years.

Despite bowing out as runners-up after falling to Japan 4-0 in the title match, seeing the trophy slip away is merely expected to mark the beginning of a new journey for China, with the team's story far from over.