City's Prince of Persia Hossein Kaebi played 45 minutes of Iran's pulsating 2-2 draw with China in the Asian Cup on Sunday.

The battle of the group favourites lived up to its billing, with China looking impressive in the first-half before Iran's big-name players responded in style to outclass their opponents in the final 45 minutes.

Shao Jiayi and Mao Jianqing gave China a 2-0 lead inside the first 33 minutes before Ferydoon Zandi pulled one back for Iran on the stroke of half-time and Javad Nekounam equalised midway through the second period.

The result leaves China and Iran level on four points at the top of the group with the Chinese ahead on goal difference.

Uzbekistan are third on three points with co-hosts Malaysia bottom of the standings following two losses.

The group concludes on Wednesday when Iran take on Malaysia and China face Uzbekistan.

The top-two will advance to the quarter-finals.

Meanwhile, Australia, who have Foxes defender Patrick Kisnorbo amongst their ranks, must overcome Thailand later today if they are to stand any chance of qualifying for the latter stages.