The visiting Asians dominated in the first half, hitting the woodwork through striker Goa Lin, although South Africa’s Mkhanyiseli Siwahla wasted a good chance just after the half hour mark, shooting over from a difficult angle when a pass to better placed teammates probably would have given Amaglug-glug the lead.

Midfielder Michael Nkambule came on for the hosts in the second half and wrestled control of the game away from China, as South Africa pushed hard for a winner against the tournament’s defending champions.

But China ended the match strongly, almost claiming a late winner in a goal mouth scramble before Nkambule was able to clear the ball away from danger.