China beats Syria to reach final round of WC Asian Qualifiers

SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates - China secured a spot in the final round of FIFA World Cup Asian zone Qualifiers after beating Syria 3-1 here on Tuesday.

Syria had qualified as Group A leader before the game, and China was given a favorable position to progress as its major competitor Jordan lost to Australia 1-0 before the kickoff whistle. The Chinese players showed good form under this situation and Espanyol striker Wu Lei proved to be the key man.