Abu Dhabi, Jan 8 (IANS): China on Monday bounced back to defeat Kyrgyzstan 2-1 in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup Group C opener at the Sheikh Khalifa International Stadium here.

China leads the Group C standings with three points, pending the result of the match pitting South Korea against the Philippines later in the day, reports Efe news.

Meanwhile, Kyrgyzstan, who qualified for the Asian Cup for the first time in its history, is in last place with no points.

Kyrgyzstani midfielder Akhlidin Israilov opened the scoring for his side three minutes before the first half stoppage time with a left-footed shot at the edge of the area off an assist by teammate Mirlan Murzaev, following a throw-in.

Just five minutes after the break, China was rewarded the equalizer on an own goal by Kyrgyzstan goalkeeper Pavel Matiash, who failed to clear away a volley header following a corner kick.

Midfielder Yu Dabao netted China's winner in the 78th minute from a difficult angle on the left to the bottom right corner of the goal, dribbling past Matiash after a headed pass by teammate Wu Xi.