China beat the Philippines 3-0 in the AFC Women's Asian Cup

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‍China beat the Philippines 3-0 to top Group A in the AFC Women's Asian Cup on Monday.

China and the Philippines both had three points going into their second Group A fixture in the AFC Women's Asian Cup.

It was the Chinese side that broke the deadlock in the 17th minute. Li Ying did just enough to edge the ball over the line, making it 1-0.

China then doubled their advantage through a superb shot from Ma Jun in the 31st minute to make it 2-0.

Li Ying of China in action. /CFP Photo

China went back to work again in the second half and Li Ying eventually connected with Gu Yasha's 57th minute cross to make it 3-0.

Late in the game, China were down to ten players as Wu Haiyan got sent off with a second yellow card. The Philippines could not take advantage as China held on for a 3-nil win, taking them to the top of Group A. That means they are through to the semi-finals, earning a spot at next year's World Cup in France.

Chinese players leave the field after winning the match. /CFP Photo

China's forward Li Ying, who scored two goals in the match, said in her post-match interview that "I played well today. I think I should have more chances to score, not just me, but the whole team. We should analyze things, and try to score more in the future. We treat each game like it is a difficult match-up. After this win, we can relax knowing we have made it to the next round.”

China's coach Siggi Eyjolfsson said that he saw “good football, creating a lot of goals and opportunities but still building on solid defense. We haven’t allowed the opponents to have many chances in the two match-ups, so we are very pleased with the beginning and we are gonna focus on the next match, which is Jordan, and hopefully keep the momentum going and keep improving in every match.”

After two matches, China topped the group. Thailand moved into second on goal difference after beating Jordan 6-1. The Thais and Philippines will meet in the final group clash for each side, with the winner advancing. If they draw, Thailand will progress on goal difference.