China’s men’s table tennis team triumphed over South Korea in the quarterfinal of the London World Team Table Tennis Championships on May 8, winning 3-0 to secure a spot in the semifinals.
In the group stage, the Chinese team struggled, losing to South Korea and Sweden after beating England, finishing with a 1-2 record. However, they bounced back in the knockout rounds, sweeping Australia 3-0 in the round of 32 and defeating Romania 3-1 in the round of 16 to reach the quarterfinals.
Facing South Korea again, who had beaten them earlier, China was determined to win. In the first match, Wang Chuqin faced Oh Joon-sung. After a tight start, Wang fell behind 3-6 but rallied to take the first game 11-9. He then dominated the second game 11-1, but Oh fought back, winning the next two games 11-8 and 11-7. Wang held his nerve in the decider, winning 11-7 to give China the first point.
Lin Shidong took on Jang Woo-jin in the second match. Lin started strong, winning the first game 11-3, and maintained his form to take the next two games 13-11 and 11-8, extending China’s lead.
In the third match, Liang Jingkun faced An Jae-hyun. After a hard-fought battle, Liang won 11-7, 11-5, and 15-13, sealing a 3-0 victory for China.
The Chinese men’s team has held an unbeaten streak since the 2001 World Championships and is aiming for their 12th consecutive title in London. They will face the winner of the match between France and Brazil in the semifinals.