The Philippines again proved worthy adversaries at the Asian Cup but despite their best efforts were ultimately beaten 3-0 by China.
While the Chinese were not at their best, they were aided by sheer individual quality, much of which was provided by Wu Lei.
The striker scored a spectacular brace before Yu Dabao added a third 10 minutes from time.
Here’s a look at the Shanghai SIPG star’s display which made him our Hero of the Day…
30-SECOND REPORT
Wu Lei started in a front three flanked by Wu Xi and Gao Lin but saw little of the ball in the attacking third during the early exchanges.
The Philippines were up for the fight and much of the battle was carried out in the heart of midfield but Lei forced himself into the picture by showing for the ball more sparking the encounter with a sublime opener.
Receiving the ball on the edge of the box, he turned and curled his exquisite effort into the far top corner.
He was more involved in the second period, setting up Zhao Xuri for a big chance early in the half before forcing the keeper into a save himself soon after.
Lei nearly broke the offside trap on a couple of occasions but then outdid his first goal with a sumptuous volley from a corner in the 66th minute.
With little over 10 minutes to play, he could’ve completed his hat-trick but for an excellent save from Michael Falkesgaard in goal.
GOT RIGHT
Movement
It’s easy to pick out his two sensational finishes but what’s just as impressive is the way Lei took the game by the scruff of its neck.
He showed excellent awareness to drop deep to get involved in the game. He peeled off the defenders expertly for his first goal, dropping into a pocket of space on the edge of the box before his gifted right peg did the rest.
His positioning for his second goal was no coincidence either, giving his marker the slip before thumping his effort home. Lei also tried to stretch the defence with his runs in behind as the opposition began to chase the game.
Finally, a glorious opportunity to get his third came from his decision to drop deep again, play the ball wide and then make a late run into the box for the return.
GOT WRONG
Dispossessed
If there’s one criticism from this performance it would have to be a degree of carelessness he showed in possession.
Lei struggled with his hold-up play and coupled with a few stray passes, he lost the ball 12 times.
In his defence, that’s still fewer than his fellow forwards Lin (17) and Xi (13).
VERDICT
Rating: 8/10
For much of the game it seemed as if the Philippines may get something out of this game but then Wu Lei decided to burst into life.
With his seventh and eighth goals for his country, the 27-year-old proved to be the catalyst for a vital 3-0 win that took them to the top of Group C.
Both of his strikes will no doubt enter the running for goal of the tournament.
