The Chinese national football team is once again aiming for a spot in the World Cup, and this time, coach Ivan Kozlovic has made a bold move by selecting 11 post-00 players, with an average age of just 26. This significant overhaul suggests a departure from traditional methods. With veteran Wang Dalei still in the lineup, can this youthful squad withstand the pressure? As we look towards the 2026 World Cup, do we still have a chance? This is not just a list of names; it's a gamble!
Let's take a look at this wave of young talent. These 11 post-00 players are full of energy, like a pack of ferocious young tigers. This isn't just about replacing players; it's about changing attitudes and expectations for the future. The vigor and determination of these young athletes could breathe new life into the national team. However, is this step too big? Young players lack experience, and what if they falter at crucial moments? Coach Ivan's boldness is commendable, but will this "burning the boats" mentality lead to a true transformation for the national team?
In the past, Chinese footballers were often referred to as "white-cut chickens," but now with these young tigers, will perceptions change? This time, we're not just hoping for miracles; we see a glimmer of hope! Naturally, the addition of young players will bring changes in tactics, but how exactly will they unfold? That remains to be seen through Ivan's strategic deployment.
Speaking of new players, we must mention Hou Yongyong. This挪甲金靴 (Norwegian First Division top scorer) with a market value of 400,000 euros could be considered a "secret weapon" for the national team. How much of an improvement can he bring to the team's offensive line? Honestly, there is a gap between the level of挪甲 (Norwegian First Division) and the World Cup qualifiers. Whether Hou Yongyong can adapt to the national team's tactical system and develop chemistry with his teammates remains uncertain. However, the national team's lack of firepower is a long-standing issue, and Hou Yongyong's arrival at least offers a new possibility. Whether he can solve the problem will depend on his upcoming performances.
Veteran Wang Dalei has also been selected, but at 35, whether he can maintain his form is questionable. Some argue that experienced veterans can stabilize the team and make crucial saves when needed. Others worry that Wang Dalei's presence might limit the growth space for younger goalkeepers. After all, future international competitions will rely on young players. The competition between old and new goalkeepers will determine who comes out on top, depending on their performance in the field.
Currently, the national team has only scored 6 points in the World Cup qualifier group stage, ranking last. To qualify for the World Cup, they need to secure 14 points in the remaining four matches, which seems harder than climbing to the heavens! Let's consider the opponents: Australia and Saudi Arabia are strong teams, and scoring points against them is no easy feat! Even if victories are achieved against Indonesia and Bahrain, that would only add up to 6 points, still far from the target!
Frankly, the national team's chances of advancing are slim. But this doesn't mean we should give up. In football, anything is possible! Who knows what might happen? Coach Ivan's tactics and player selection will be the key to determining the fate of the national team.
Is selecting so many young players really the best choice? There are supporters and opponents. Supporters believe that young players, with their vitality and drive, can bring new hope to the national team. Opponents are concerned that inexperienced young players may make mistakes and potentially jeopardize the team's future. In fact, there's nothing wrong with rejuvenation. The key lies in how these young players are cultivated to grow quickly and become pillars of the national team.
Where does the future of the national team lie? No one can say for sure. But we hope that this young national team will demonstrate their abilities in future matches and bring us more pleasant surprises.
Regardless of the outcome, we should support this young national team and cheer for their fighting spirit! The road to the World Cup is destined to be bumpy, but as long as we never give up, there will always be hope! Perhaps, in the not-too-distant future, we will truly see the national team stand on the stage of the World Cup once again! Let's look forward to it together!