The match between Lebanon and China ended in a 0-0 draw in the second round of the group stage of the Asian Cup. The Lebanese team increased its tally to one point, remaining at the bottom of Group A, while China moved to second place with two points, awaiting the result of the match between Qatar and Tajikistan.
**First Half**
The first half was calm, with no genuine chances on either side despite Lebanon's relative possession and control in the midfield. Lebanon imposed its style of play while China retreated to its half to close spaces. Although Lebanon dominated, the lack of numerical density in the attacking third prevented this advantage from translating into actual threats to China’s defense, especially as coach Radulovic relied more on the flanks, lacking depth in attack. In contrast, the Chinese team became more active in the last 10 minutes and posed a greater threat. Lebanese goalkeeper Mustafa Matar saved a dangerous shot from inside the area by Zhang Yuning in the 41st minute, before handling a header from the same player well in the 45th minute, ending the half in a goalless draw.
**Second Half**
Possession at the start of the second half favored China, although there were few real attacking attempts throughout most of the half. As time progressed, China tried to increase its attacking effectiveness with some substitutions, but Lebanon's solid defensive positioning greatly limited the opponent’s threat. Despite Lebanon's attempts to launch impactful counter-attacks, the continued lack of attacking density prevented clear chances against China’s goal. In the 83rd minute, China nearly snatched a winning goal with a dangerous cross that went over the head of an unmarked Lin Liangmin just meters from the goal. Play remained confined to the midfield in the remaining minutes, leading to a final score of 0-0.
