China PR U20 vs Australia U20

China U20 edged past Australia U20 1-0 in the first match of the Australia-China Friendship Series at Yiwu Meihu Sports Center Stadium. Yang Mingrui grabbed the only goal of the game in the 30th minute, pouncing on a rebound after Miao Rundong's driving run through multiple defenders ended with a blocked shot. The Young Socceroos had a golden chance to level in the 70th minute when Yue Ruijie gave away a penalty. But McAllister saw his spot-kick saved by Chinese goalkeeper Yihessan, who proved the hero with a crucial stop to preserve the clean sheet. Both sides were evenly matched in possession and shots, making for a tight contest. China's squad featured several Europe-based talents, including Xie Chuyun of Stuttgart and Zhang Jiaming on loan from Burnley, while Australia named a 23-man squad under head coach Trevor Morgan. The result gives China a confidence boost heading into the second friendly on March 31, as both teams continue their preparations for the AFC U20 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifying tournament in August.