Melbourne, J Jan 10 (IANS): China football team head coach Alain Perrin was satisfied after his side clinched a 1-0 win over Saudi Arabia in their Asian Cup opener Saturday, saying a "tough match brings joy".

Following an impressive individual performance, Yu Hai scored the game's decisive goal in his 50th international cap, firing a deflected long range free kick into the bottom corner with nine minutes remaining, reports Xinhua.

Yu's goal came just moments after Chinese keeper Wang Dalei saved Saudi Arabian striker Naif Hazazi's penalty, which he'd won himself after being fouled by Ren Hang inside the area.

"Congratulations to the whole team, tough match brings joy and we feel happy," said Perrin.

"I think our preparation paid off today. The goalkeeper performed perfectly, and we seized the opportunity to win. Our task right now is to prepare for the next match," Perrin added.

"I'm satisfied with our defending line and with our players. We didn't allow a goal."