China qualified as the top third placed team, and needed some help to do so, as they made it on goal difference over Lebanon. A couple late goals on the final day of qualifying swung things China’s way. The draw was held earlier Wednesday in Sydney. China, who are playing in their 11st straight Asian Cup, would be drawn in Group B with the DPRK, Saudi Arabia, and the top seed in the pool Uzbekistan. China have never won the event, but have been runners-up twice, the last time occurring in 2004. China’s new head football coach likes his squad’s chances, but also knows it is a difficult group. "Get more points than the other." Alain Perrin, China coach said.
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