In 2025, the Chinese men's football team embarked on their first training camp of the year in Haikou, with their sights set firmly on the upcoming 7th round of World Cup qualifiers. This training camp is not only a comprehensive test of physical fitness and tactical prowess but also a deep adjustment and optimization of the team's lineup.
With less than two months remaining before the crucial matches against Saudi Arabia and Australia, national team coach Ivan Kozlovic is acutely aware of the importance of these games. He has taken to the field personally, strictly controlling the training rhythm. The players are subjected to an intense training regimen of two sessions per day, which they describe as an unprecedented challenge. Although demanding, everyone agrees that such sacrifices are worthwhile for the sake of victory.
It is understood that this training camp will be condensed into just 10 days, a decision aimed at enhancing preparation efficiency and taking into account various opinions. Through high-intensity training, the players have not only further honed their physical fitness but also significantly improved their tactical execution.
Several players have seized new opportunities during this training camp. Naturalized player Hou Yongyong has secured his position as a forward with his outstanding performance, while Zhang Yuning may take on a more pivotal role in the lineup, enhancing the coherence and threat of the attack. Additionally, Wu Shaocong, a rising defensive star from the European scene, has displayed his versatility and become a key focus of Ivan's development plans. These adjustments have injected new vitality and hope into the national team.
However, not all players have managed to stand out in the competition. 23-year-old goalkeeper Jian Tao, although selected for the national team for the first time, faces minimal chances of playing time against veterans like Yan Junling. Similarly, defender Han Pengfei, due to lackluster performances, may miss out on the upcoming top 18 qualifiers. Furthermore, midfielders Cheng Jin and Wu Mitijiang, whose form has not met expectations, have been forced to bid an early farewell to the training camp.
Wu Lei, the top scorer in the Chinese Super League, must undergo surgery due to injury and is expected to be sidelined for two months, ruling him out of the critical matches against Saudi Arabia and Australia. His absence not only affects the team's attacking line but also raises concerns among fans about his future prospects. As he ages, his recovery speed may struggle to match that of younger players, and even upon return, he could face increased competitive pressure.
As the lineup is adjusted and training intensifies, the national team is moving towards a more efficient and united direction. Through this brief yet intensive training camp, there have been noticeable improvements in tactical execution and personnel coordination within the team. While challenges persist, the players remain confident in their future.
Ivan Kozlovic, with his wealth of coaching experience and relentless dedication, has instilled new fighting spirit and hope into this team. As the World Cup qualifiers approach, it remains to be seen whether the national team can break through the encirclement and bring joy and glory to the fans, something we eagerly await.
In the future, the national team will continue to lay the foundation of hard work and strive to write new chapters on the international stage.