China had the best of their group C match today against the United States and won with a 49th minute goal by Qu Bo after a quick attack down the right in Mendoza, Argentina.
The most creative American player on the pitch, Landon Donovan, ran the midfield in the early stages but failed to find a way through the sturdy Chinese defence, which was held together by Du Wei.
The Americans attacked relentlessly after half time, but were stung in a counter-attack by the Chinese in a move started by Gao Ming whose pass found Sun Xiang.
His long ball found Qingdao Hainiu striker Qu who had made an intelligent run and his shot went through the legs of the American goalkeeper and into the net.
As the Americans threw players forward to seek an equaliser, China drafted players into defence to protect their lead.
China's next match pits them against Ukraine on Wednesday, when the USA face Chile
Olekcii Byelik scored twice as Ukraine beat Chile 4-2 in the same group with Andriy Gerasmenko and Ruslan Valeev grabbing the other goals for the East Europeans.
Favourites Argentina and Brazil, both vying for a fourth title, began with 2-0 wins, as the host nation overcame Finland and their neighbours beat Germany, while China beat the United States 1-0.
(China Daily 06/18/2001)
