Chinese Taipei held back its punches and worked just enough sweat to subdue India 2-0 on November 15 to clinch the fourth and last semifinal slot in the 12th Asian women's soccer championship at the Iloilo Stadium in Iloilo.

Chinese Taipei and DPR Korea wound up tied in Group A with similar records of three wins and a draw, but the former placed second in the group because of an inferior goal difference.

Chinese Taipei had a plus 21 goal difference while DPR Korea, with whom it drew 1-1 last Saturday, had plus 22.

More importantly, Chinese Taipei ducked an early showdown in the semifinals with defending champion China since, base on the tournament format, the Group A first placer meets the Group B topnotcher in the next round.

They now get to face Group C leader Japan in the semis on Friday at the Panaad Sports Complex in Bacolod.

Vietnam blanked winless Malaysia, 4-0, in nearby Barotac Nuevo to close out its campaign with a 2-2 slate.

The Philippines and Thailand, both tied with 1-2 records, battle for third place in Group C in their 3 p.m. clash at the Iloilo Stadium in this event.

Uzbekistan takes on Nepal at 2 p.m. in the other match ending the elimination round. (Xinhua)