EAFF NEWS/COLUMN

Xi’an: Australia secured their place at the AFC U23 Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2026 on Tuesday as Tony Vidmar’s side claimed a 0-0 draw with China PR at a raucous Xian International Football Center to take top spot in Group D.

The result sees the Olyroos finish in pole position on seven points after earlier wins over Northern Mariana Islands and Timor-Leste while the Chinese finish in second, also on seven points but behind Australia on goal difference.

China PR could still qualify for the finals, which will be played in Saudi Arabia in January, as one of the four runners-up with the best records across the 11 qualifying groups.

Australia 0-0 China PR

The Australians knew a draw would be enough to confirm their progress to the Finals but it was Vidmar’s team who went closest to finding a winner during the 90 minutes. .....

FT | 🇦🇺 Australia 0️⃣-0️⃣ China PR 🇨🇳

A goalless draw is enough for Australia to top Group D and secure qualification for 2026 #AFCU23 Finals! pic.twitter.com/akHpn7yIMj
— #WAC2026 (@afcasiancup) September 9, 2025

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10MA TOPICS! [CHINA FA][AFC U23 ASIAN CUP] Qualifiers - Group D: Australia 0-0 China PR

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10MA TOPICS! [CHINA FA][AFC U23 ASIAN CUP] Qualifiers - Group D: Australia 0-0 China PR

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