China gear up for November clashes against Westfield Matildas

The Westfield Matildas’ next opponents China are warming up for the two-game series in Victoria next month by playing in a four-nation tournament on home soil this week.

The Steel Roses are taking on DPR Korea, Mexico and Brazil at the Yongchuan International Tournament in their first matches since a 4-2 friendly win over Finland in June.

The tournament started on Thursday, with China – ranked 13 in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings - losing 2-1 to DPR Korea.

But Bruno Bini’s side – who will play the Westfield Matildas at AAMI Park in Melbourne (November 22) and Simonds Stadium in Geelong (November 26) – bounced back by beating Mexico on Saturday.

Despite going behind early, China hit back to level the scores on the half-hour mark through the impressive Xiao Yuyi.

The Chinese side were creating most of the chances but fell behind again 10 minutes after the break through a long-range screamer by Cristina Ferral.

China playmaker Zhang Rui levelled the scores with 20 minutes left with a superb free-kick before Wang Shuang completed the comeback five minutes later.

In their final match on Tuesday China will face Brazil, who recently lost their two-game friendly series against the Westfield Matildas in Australia.

Brazil has won both of their matches in China so far, with Marta on the scoresheet in both games.