China's 2018 World Cup hope dims after Syria draw

China's Wu Xi (15) celebrates scoring their second goal against Syria during their World Cup qualifier at Hang Jebat Stadium, Malacca City, Malaysia on June 13, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

China controlled well in the next half hour but Gao Lin and Zhang Xizhe missed series of chances.

Zhang Linpeng had been very close to equalized for China in the final minute of the first half, but his header hit the crossbar.

The second half saw China almost dominated the whole pitch and finally pull the match level in the 68th minute. Nassouh Nakkdahli's foul on Zhang Linpeng inside the box was clearly witnessed by the referee. Gao Lin beat the pressure to convert the penalty.

Only seven minute later, substitute Xiao Zhi's header found Wu Xi, whose volley made the keeper no chance and China were in front.