China draws with Japan in East Asian Football Championship

China had its best chance with 10 minutes to go when captain Zhu Chenjie's shot around the penalty spot went just over the bar following a corner.

Japan almost broke the deadlock a few minutes later when Takuma Nishimura received a short pass from the touchline, but his shot hit the side netting.

"The most important thing was to take some good conclusions after the first game against South Korea in terms of defense stability and first of all, offensive impact," said China head coach Aleksandar Jankovic.

"After 90 minutes against the very strong team of Japan, we are satisfied," he added.

On July 27, China will face Hong Kong, China, who lost to South Korea 3-0 earlier on Sunday.