There was a shock at Helong Stadium as China condemned South Korea to a potentially damaging loss on the road to Russia 2018.
Yu Dabao's goal led China to a surprise 1-0 World Cup qualifying win over South Korea as the hosts secured their first victory in Group A.
Marcello Lippi's side had not even scored on the road to Russia 2018 since a 3-2 loss to the same opponents in September – a run encompassing four matches – but rewarded the vociferous Helong Stadium crowd with a deserved win on Thursday.
Defeat would have all but ended China's hopes of progressing, but they kept the dream alive while putting a dent in South Korea's bid, denying Uli Stielike's men the chance to go top ahead of leaders Iran's trip to Qatar.