Published : 2024-12-14

On December 14, 1984, the Chinese national football team reached the final of the Asian Cup for the first time.

The Asian Cup that year was held in Singapore, with a total of 10 teams participating, namely Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Syria, South Korea, China, Iran, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and India.

The 10 teams were divided into two groups, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals. In the group stage, the Chinese team achieved an excellent record of 3 wins and 1 loss, scoring 10 goals and conceding only 2, advancing as the top team from their group.

In the semi-finals, China's opponent was Kuwait. The match ended in a 0-0 draw during regular time.

Then in extra time, the Chinese team secured victory with a goal from Li Huayun (李華筠), defeating their opponent 1-0 and reaching the final for the first time in history.

Unfortunately, in the final against Saudi Arabia, China lost 0-2 and finished as runners-up.