Xi'an International Youth Football Tournament: U23 National Team Stages Comeback from Two Goals Down, Draws 2-2 with Thailand U23

At 19:35 Beijing time on March 25th, the 2026 China Team · Xi'an International Youth Football Tournament kicked off at the Xi'an International Football Center, with the Chinese U23 men's team facing Thailand U23 at home. In a roller-coaster match where both sides had their moments, the Chinese team, trailing 0-2 after a difficult first half, rallied fiercely in the second half, scoring two consecutive goals to ultimately draw 2-2 with their opponents, delivering an thrilling "comeback from two goals down".

Match Process

First Half: National Team Struggles, Falls Behind 0-2

Early Chance Missed: Shortly after the start, the home-side U23 national team displayed strong attacking intent. Captain Xiang Yuwang's follow-up shot in a scramble hit the crossbar in the 2nd minute, but the referee ruled a handball offense beforehand, nullifying the goal and missing a dream start.

Thailand's Spectacular Goal Breaks Deadlock: In the 21st minute, Thailand took the lead first. Silapop Wandi delivered a cross from the right, Jehanafi Mama controlled the ball at the edge of the penalty area and immediately turned for a stunning volley, firing a world-class strike that curled into the far corner, leaving goalkeeper Yu Jinyong helpless. The U23 national team trailed 0-1.

Defensive Error Leads to Another Goal: In the 35th minute, a critical mistake occurred in the U23 national team's defense. Bao Shimeng failed to clear with a header at the back post, and Thailand player Chawanwee Serowich seized the opportunity, calmly shooting from a tight angle to extend the lead to 0-2.

Wang Bohao Injured and Substituted: In the 20th minute of the match, starting forward Wang Bohao sustained an injury during a challenge and was unable to continue, replaced by Li Xinxiang, which impacted the team's offensive plans.

Second Half: Fightback from Desperate Situation, Scores Two Goals

After the halftime break, the trailing U23 national team did not give up. Following adjustments during the interval, they launched an even more vigorous counterattack.

Xiang Yuwang Scores to Narrow Gap: In the 50th minute, the U23 national team pulled one back. Bao Shimeng redeemed himself, breaking through on the right and delivering a precise cross to find Xiang Yuwang near the penalty spot, who calmly slotted the ball home, bringing the score to 1-2.

Li Xinxiang Volleys to Equalize: In the 66th minute, China leveled the score! Chen Zeshi provided a brilliant lofted pass from midfield, substitute Li Xinxiang read it perfectly, sprinted forward, and executed a spectacular volley that found the net. The score became 2-2!

Final Stages: After equalizing, the U23 national team's morale soared, continuing to pressure the opponent. In the 91st minute, Xiang Yuwang's looping header struck the side netting, nearly securing a last-minute winner. During stoppage time, players Xuan Zhijian and Tian Kan from both sides were sent off with red cards following a clash.

Ultimately, the full match concluded with the U23 national team staging a comeback from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Thailand U23.

Post-Match SummaryIn this match, despite having several key Asian Cup players called up to the senior national team, the U23 national team demonstrated resilient fighting spirit amidst an incomplete lineup. Although they faced difficulties in the first half due to their own errors and the opponent's efficient counterattacks, the team adjusted promptly in the second half, successfully reversing the situation through active movement and effective tactical coordination.

Goals from captain Xiang Yuwang and substitute surprise contributor Li Xinxiang were crucial for the team securing a point. Following this match, the U23 national team will face their second opponent in this tournament, North Korea U23, on March 28th.

Starting Lineups for Both Teams

China U23 Starting XI: 1-Yu Jinyong, 2-He Yiran, 5-Peng Xiao, 6-Yang Haoyu, 7-Xiang Yuwang (Captain), 15-Zhang Aihui, 17-Bao Shimeng, 21-Bao Shengxin, 24-Wang Shiqin, 27-Chen Zeshi, 32-Wang Bohao (20' 23-Li Xinxiang)

Thailand U23 Starting XI: 1-Sorawat Pomsaman, 3-Usama Tiankan, 4-Chanapa Bophan, 5-Wichan Inaram, 8-Chawanwee Serowich, 11-Silapop Wandi, 13-Sopon Neawong, 14-Jehanafi Mama, 16-Bitchai Senjato, 17-Tirabat Betong, 22-Jidapha Sensawa

Match Statistics

The Chinese U23 men's team had a 65% possession rate, with 13 total shots, 6 of which were on target. Thailand U23 had 7 total shots, with 3 on target.

Watch the U23 National Team on Migu! At 19:35 on March 28th, the U23 National Team faces North Korea U23. AI Black Technology, special viewing angles await your discovery, capturing every detail on the field!