The first match of the World Cup qualifiers' Asian zone top 18 has chilled the hearts of Chinese football fans! Our national team players have truly given everyone a "surprise," not only ranking last in Group C but also setting an astonishing goal difference record: -7! This number is colder than the ice at the North Pole, making one wonder: Are we here to play football or to set new historical records?
But don't lose heart, fellow football fans! This is just the beginning, with 9 more matches waiting for us to "challenge." Imagine if we could sneakily grab 1 point when facing teams like Saudi Arabia and Australia, the "big brothers," and add victories over Bahrain and Indonesia, the "little brothers," we might even mix it up for fourth place in the group. It's like an exam; passing is enough—our goal is not to be eliminated!
We must mention our head coach, Ivanković. This "foreign coach" did not blame the players after the 0-7 defeat to Japan. Hey, what a "good guy"! Not everyone sees it that way.
Let me elaborate. After this crushing defeat, even the bigwigs of our Football Association couldn't sit still. The FA Chairman Song Kai and Vice-Chairman Xu Jiren personally visited the national team to encourage the players. This scene is almost like a teacher comforting students who failed an exam, saying, "It's okay, try again next time."
The upcoming matches are even more nerve-wracking. On September 10th at 8 PM, the national team will face Saudi Arabia at home in Dalian. That's going to be a tough battle! It's like David against Goliath, except our David seems to have forgotten his sling. Even more frustratingly, CCTV5 hasn't secured the live broadcast rights yet. Is it because they're afraid we'll be sad watching?
Some people are calling for a coaching change. Famous commentator Dong Lu has made a bold statement: "If the national team loses 0-3 or 0-4 in the second match, Ivan must step down." It's as if he's measuring Ivan for a suit, ready to tailor him a "resignation" suit.
What really caused a stir was the remarks of our "youth training godfather," Sun Jihai. This former national team defender isn't just shooting blanks. He straightforwardly stated that Ivanković should step down now because he's no longer suitable to continue coaching the national team. These words are louder than thunder!
Sun Jihai isn't just talking. This guy has been investing in youth training since 2021, putting in 28 million of his own money over three years! That's over 9 million per year! This isn't just throwing money around; it's pouring real gold and silver into the future of Chinese football. Sun Jihai also emphasizes that these investments can all be audited and verified. It's as if he's telling everyone, "I'm not exaggerating; I'm genuinely concerned about Chinese football!"
Sun Jihai's views on Chinese football are incisive. He believes that to change the current state of Chinese football, priority should be given to youth training, followed by the need for a high-quality league. It's as if he's prescribing medicine for Chinese football. He also hinted that he has a more suitable candidate in mind for the national team head coach position. Now, that's interesting. Is Sun Jihai recommending himself?
To be honest, Sun Jihai's remarks aren't just for show. This former Premier League veteran has become one of the most authoritative voices in Chinese football. His love and efforts for Chinese football are like those of a persistent gardener, constantly watering and fertilizing the "Chinese football" tree, hoping for it to one day flourish.
Looking back at the current national team and considering Sun Jihai's contributions, it's truly touching. The national team's performance is like a bowl of porridge that's gone cold, while Sun Jihai's efforts are like a fire trying to warm it up again.
Sun Jihai's speaking out is not just dissatisfaction with Ivanković but also concern and expectations for the current state of Chinese football. His investment and dedication are like lighting a lamp in the darkness, illuminating the path forward for Chinese football.
As for the upcoming match between the national team and Saudi Arabia, I'm sure all Chinese football fans will hold their breath, hoping for a miracle to happen. This match will be a test, not only for the players but also an "end-of-term exam" for Ivanković.
Regardless of the outcome, we should thank people like Sun Jihai. They prove through action that the future of Chinese football isn't just talk but requires solid effort.
In the near future, we may really see the day when Chinese football rises again. At that time, will we look back on today and sigh, "Change began then."
Let's wait and see how this football storm unfolds. No matter what, the future of Chinese football still needs more people like Sun Jihai to continue their efforts and contributions. Rome wasn't built in a day, and the revival road of Chinese football is certainly not achieved overnight.