XIAMEN - Defending champion China beat Thailand with 4-1 to sit atop in Group A to the Sudirman Cup knockout stages on Wednesday evening.

Mix doubles Feng Yanzhe and Wei Yaxin beat Teeraratsakul Pakkapon and Muenwong Phataimas 23-21, 21-11. Facing Thailand's Wangcharoen Kantaphon in the men's singles, Li Shifeng beat him 21-18, 17-21 and 21-13 in an 85-minute thriller.

Women's single world No. 2 Wang Zhiyi endured a grueling battle with Intanon Ratchanok. Wang dropped the first set 19 to 21 and recovered to clinch the second 21-13. However, Wang lost the decider 21-23.

"She played very aggressively today. I didn't do well in many details, which gave my opponent lots of opportunities and confidence. I hope my failure can be transformed into valuable experience," said Wang.

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In the men's doubles and women's doubles, China had comfortable wins, with Liang Weikeng and Wang Chang beat their opponents 21-14, 21-14, while Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning won 21-11, 21-8.

In Group B, four-time champion South Korea overcame another men's singles stumble to defeat Chinese Taipei 4-1, ranking first in the group.