China's recent poor form has continued with a 3-2 loss to Syria in Asian Cup qualifying.

In front of home fans, the Syrians took the lead after six minutes through a Maher Al Sayed penalty and the doubled the score in the 24th minute.

This shellshocked the Chinese but could not kick start a revival as Firas Al Khatib scored another penalty, taking the lead to three goals at the break.

A fresh, determined China came out in the second half and cut the deficit to two goals when substitute Qu Bo netted on 52 minutes but it was all to no avail.

Liu Jian scored a second goal for China deep in stoppage time but it was far too late as the visitors slumped to yet another defeat.

Syria coach Fajr Ibrahim said his side needed to improve despite the victory.

"I'm satisfied with the result but the performance was not convincing," said Ibrahim.

"Especially because we had a 3-0 lead."