Asian U-17 champions China aiming for glory at worlds
(Footballasia.com)
Updated: 2005-09-16 09:20

As China’s wily coach Zhang Ning readily admits, it will be a difficult, if not entirely impossible, test for his young charges.

“It is a tough assignment for us to advance against such strong sides," Zhang told FIFA.com.

"In South America and Africa the youth teams are usually very strong with a lot of talented individuals. We have to play as a team to win.

"But at this age level no team is a dominant power or outright underdog. Every side has a chance if they play to the best of their ability,” added Zhang.

Despite his understandably cautious words, Zhang is adamant that a maximum haul from the Costa Rican confrontation on the tournament’s opening day, will stand China in good stead for the head-to-head with Peru three days later and their final, potentially crucial, group game against Ghana on September 22.

"The match with Costa Rica is a must-win for us as the three points would give the players plenty of confidence."

Although China are no strangers to the competition – they qualified for the 1989, 1991 and 1993 extravaganzas and hosted the inaugural event in 1985 – Peru could prove to be a steep learning curve for Zhang’s youngsters.

Having been grouped with Italy, Cote d’Ivoire and the USA, DPR Korea’s path to the next round looks just as difficult as China’s.

The North Koreans, who impressed many observers during their qualifying campaign, start their quest for silverware against the Americans on September 17 in a Group C tie that will always have far more than just footballing overtones.

With an African test and European giants Italy to follow, few outside the Korean camp are backing the reclusive nation to reach the knockout phase.

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