China had a smooth start into the second quarter as Guo made a jumper, both Wang and Zhao Rui scored under the basket. Ra then stood out to score nine points for a 32-31 lead for S. Korea. However, the hosts still led 35-32 into the second half.

After Zhou dominated the paint with four straight points for China, Lee made a three-pointer and Ra hit four straight points to put the game level at 39-all. As both sides struggled on fouls and field goal percentage, China kept a narrow lead at 54-52 before the fourth quarter.

A Choi Jun-yong three pointer started the final quarter. Guo hit a three-pointer to take a 61-55 lead for China, before Kim and Choi combined with six points to equalize, setting up the late-game drama.

China, with two games in hand, is leading the Asian battle for a ticket to Tokyo Olympics, with Iran chasing behind closely.

On Sunday, China will play Nigeria while Iran, who scored its first win over Angola, faces the Philippines.

"We will do our best to prepare for the last game. We will fight to the end for the victory," Li said.

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