Xian: Mahmoud Al Mawas was on target to give Syria a vital 1-0 win in China as the West Asians earned their maiden victory of the third round of qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup at Shanxi Stadium on Thursday.
After a goalless first half, the winger bagged the game’s only goal nine minutes after the restart and despite China’s best efforts, and the backing of a loud and passionate crowd, they were unable to penetrate the visitors’ stout back-line and suffered a major setback to their qualifying campaign.
The result sees China remain without a win in Group A with a trip to Uzbekistan to come on Tuesday, while Syria move onto four points and travel to winless Qatar for their Matchday Four tie.
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