SEOUL, KOREA: Korea Republic got the final round of qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup off to a perfect start with a thrilling 3-2 win over China at the Seoul World Cup Stadium on Thursday evening. The deadlock was broken midway through the first half as Zheng Zhi put the ball into his own net and two goals in quick second half succession from Lee Chung-yong and Koo Ja-cheol seemingly set the hosts on the way to a deserved win only for late goals from Hai Yu and Hao Junmin to ensure a tense finish. Lee Chung-Yong and Koo Ja-Cheol both scored to pile on the pain for China but the visitors nearly hauled their way back into it following late strikes from Yu Hai and Hao Junmin. However, a precious equaliser eluded Gao Hongbo's men and they start with a defeat as they embark on the year-long final round of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Korea will next take on Syria, meanwhile China will host group leaders Iran in an anticipated clash, both games will be held on September 6.