RABAT, Oct. 24 (Xinhua) -- China advanced into the round of 16 at the 2025 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup in Morocco after easing past Ecuador 4-0 in its final Group C match on Friday, scoring all four goals in the first half to secure second place in the group.

After the first two rounds, the United States topped Group C with six points, while China and Ecuador were level on three points, with the Steel Roses holding a goal difference advantage heading into the decisive clash.

China made a flying start as Zhou Xinyi struck from outside the box in the 10th minute, marking the third consecutive match in which the Steel Roses have scored within the opening 15 minutes. Six minutes later, Zeng Yijie curled home a direct free-kick to double the lead.

In the 31st minute, a short corner saw Chen Ruilin break into the area and finish from a tight angle, before Zeng delivered a corner to the back post for Song Yu to head home in the 43rd minute.

With victory well in hand, China slowed the tempo in the second half. Chen won a penalty in the 65th minute, but Zhou's effort hit the post as the score remained unchanged.

In Friday's other Group C match, the United States beat Norway 5-0 to finish top with nine points. China followed on six, with Ecuador third on three and Norway bottom after three straight losses.

The 24-team tournament features six groups, with the top two from each group and the best four third-placed sides advancing to the knockout stage. ■