Gao hopes for major rebound
Print Edition
CHINA’S lengthy exile from the top table of international soccer looks set to continue for at least another six years unless Gao Hongbo can deliver a major turnaround in fortunes after a miserable start to the final round of World Cup qualifying.
After three matches out of 10 in the final round of Asian qualification for the 2018 finals, China has just one point from a goalless draw at home to Iran.
Its opening Group A 2-3 loss to regional powerhouse South Korea might have been expected but the 0-1 reverse it suffered at the hands of Syria on a rainy night in Xi’an last Thursday was not.
That defeat means today’s meeting with Uzbekistan in Tashkent looms as a “must-win” match for the Chinese if they are to force their way back into the reckoning for a top-two spot in the group that carries with it a ticket to Russia.
Iran and South Korea currently occupy those spots on seven points followed by Uzbekistan (six) and Syria (four) with China languishing in fifth place with its solitary point.
While there is also the possibility of securing a World Cup berth via two playoffs by finishing third, the Chinese look almost certain to be vying with the Uzbeks for that spot.
“We have only lost two games out of total of 10, which means we still have a chance of qualifying,” Gao, who returned for a second stint as coach in February after the dismissal of Frenchman Alain Perrin, said after the shock loss in Xian.
“It is not true that we are losing hope after losing two matches. Our experience tells us that as long as we fight until the last second, we will have opportunities.
“We are very lucky to reach this phase, and we have to give our appreciation to all our supporters,” he added.
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