China fought back to capture a thrilling victory over Syria ©FIBA

China produced an epic fightback to beat Syria and reach the quarter-finals of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Asia Cup in Beirut today.

It came in a topsy-turvy contest at the Nouhad Nawfal Stadium in which the Syrians so nearly captured a shock victory.

Syria, already riding a sporting wave after winning a high jump bronze medal at last week's World Athletics Championships, outscored their opponents in the first three quarters.

They led 23-19 after the first before moving eight points clear by half-time.

They still led 68-56 at the end of the third quarter.

But then the Chinese fought back brilliantly.

Syria put China under huge pressure before eventually being beaten ©FIBA
Syria put China under huge pressure before eventually being beaten ©FIBA

A rejuvenated performance in the fourth quarter saw them outscore their opponents 25-11 in an 81-79 victory. 

China will now face Australia for a place in the last-four.

Jordan beat Iraq 84-70 to determine the last quarter-final place.

They will now be up against New Zealand.

Hosts Lebanon will play Iran and South Korea will face The Philippines in the other two matches.