The win came just seven seconds from the end when Yi Jianlian netted to end the resistance of the Jordanians.

"We didn't start well and were behind, but in the second quarter played with a lot of effort and did everything to come back," said Yi, whose 25 points helped China to glory.

"This win is an acknowledgment of all the work we have put in."

Having lost to Iran in the 2009 final, China were desperate to make amends, but they struggled to get going early on, though by the end of the first quarter they had edged ahead 16-15.

Jordan then took the lead during the second period but were guilty of profligacy despite Wisam Sous and Sam Daghles leading their attack well, and went into the half time break 36-31 ahead.

Just as they may have dreamt of repeating their heroics in knocking out holders Iran and the Philippines, China surged back to take a 52-44 lead, though Zeid Abbas and Daghles reduced the advantage once more to leave the score poised at 59-56 at the end of the third quarter.

Rasheim Wright then helped Jordan to level the scores in the final period and leave them tied at 69 all going into the last few seconds, when Yi's intervention send 14 times champions China through the Olympic Games to break Jordanian hearts.

"It was regrettable, we played really well, but China came out on top.

"They are the better team," Daghles said, before going onto attack officials for their role in the defeat.

"It is unfortunate that the game was decided by the referees, it would have been better if the players decided the outcome."

Jordan, as well as third place South Korea, will now compete in next year's final qualification event with ten other countries from rival confederations for the final three spots at London 2012.

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