JAKARTA - Much tougher challenges lies ahead for China at the Asian Cup following brilliant performance of Iran and potential rivals South Korea and Saudi Arabia.

Tournament favorites Iran came from behind to overcome Uzbekistan during a game of speed and technique, taking a big step towards the knock-out stage.

Iran now trails China with goal differences and the two top contenders in Group C are geared for a head-on clash on July 15.

The result will likely decide their chances to quality for the next stage, and possibly their fate in the tournament.

China coach Zhu expressed caution after his team smashed co-hosts Malaysia 5-1. "The victory does not prove a lot, and the match against Iran will be much tougher," he admitted.

Striker Ali Karimi, during a press interview before the tournament, did not mention China as tournament favorites. "Apart from us, Suadi Arabia, Japan and South Korea all have opportunities to win the trophy, " he said.

If China manage to reach the knock-out stage, they will possibly meet South Korea or Saudi Arabia.

South Korea and Saudi Arabia reached 1-1 after the 90-minute due on Wednesday. The rhythm of the match proved both teams are in good shape.

China have never defeated South Korea in over 20 years and received more defeats than victories in their meetings with against Saudi Arabia.

But China also demonstrated their strength with good performance of several European-based players such as Sun Jihai of Manchester City and Shao Jiayi of Cottbus.

As the tournament goes on, China's chances to go further depend on the performance of its European-based players and captain Zheng Zhi.