China missed out on the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup title, losing 4-0 to defending champions Japan in the final in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It was China's first-ever appearance in the tournament's final.
China failed to show its best in Saturday's final, losing 4-0 to Japan. The team had reached the decider for the first time by beating Vietnam 3-0 in Tuesday's semifinals.
China defender Hu Hetao said: "I am sorry for failing to show our best game in this crucial final. It reflects our strength. We respect our opponents and also our own efforts."
He added: "I believe we will achieve a better result in the next edition, and every generation of the U23 team will make progress in the future. I trust them."
Japan led 2-0 at halftime through goals from Yuto Ozeki and Kosei Ogura. Ryunosuke Sato converted a penalty around the 60th minute, and Ogura scored again late on. Japan, winners in 2016 and 2024, had edged South Korea 1-0 in the other semifinal.
Japan took the initiative early, forcing corners, while China wasted a chance as Xiang Yuwang's header was too weak for goalkeeper Rui Araki. In the 12th minute, Ozeki's shot deflected off defender Peng Xiao into the net. Ogura curled a rocket into the bottom corner eight minutes later.
Sato's penalty made it 3-0, before Ogura's deflected first-time shot sealed the win. China had a goal disallowed for offside in the 68th minute when Yang Xi poked in a rebound.
On Friday, Vietnam claimed bronze, beating South Korea 7-6 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in extra time. Despite the defeat, China's run highlights emerging talent, though gaps against elite teams remain evident.
