Alkass Digital
China landed in Doha looking to take hold of the elusive AFC Asian Cup trophy, with coach Aleksandar Jankovic reposing confidence on his “motivated” side to do well in the continental showpiece.
Placed in Group A with defending champions and hosts Qatar, Tajikistan and Lebanon, China are ready to start their quest for the maiden crown after giving final touches to their preparations at a training camp in Abu Dhabi.
China have reached the final of the tournament twice in 1984 and 2004 while their campaigns in the last two editions ended in the quarter-finals.
Jankovic’s first target will be to clear the group the stage as his ranks will play their opening match against Tajikistan on January 13 at Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium, before they meet Lebanon at Al Thumama Stadium four days later. But the sternest test for China in the group stage will be Qatar on January 22 at Khalifa International Stadium.
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“It will be a big challenge against Qatar and I am very excited,” Jankovic said after arriving in Doha yesterday.
“Qatar are the defending champions in the Asian Cup. They are a good, strong and host team also. They now also have the experience of playing the World Cup. So it is a big challenge for us playing against them,” he added.
The Serbian tactician said his team, which is a blend of young talent and seasoned players, is well prepared for the Asian Cup.
“Our preparations were very good in Abu Dhabi. It was two weeks of good and useful training. All the players are very motivated and excited to be here. We have picked young and experience players. This team is growing up so we see this entire competition as a challenge and we are very motivated to play well,” he said.
Meanwhile, Qatar would continue its training camp before they will start their title defence in tournament’s opening match against Lebanon at the iconic Lusail Stadium on January 12.
Al Annabi were defeated by Jordan 2-1 in their final friendly on Friday after they blanked Cambodia 3-0 on December 31.
Syria players and officials arrive in Doha, yesterday.
Syria, Indonesia arrive for Asian Cup
Meanwhile, Syria and Indonesia were the other teams to arrive in Doha yesterday ahead of the Asian Cup.
Syria are in Group B where they will face Australia, Uzbekistan and India while Indonesia are in tough Group D which includes title favourites Japan, reigning Gulf champions Iraq and Vietnam.
Indonesia players welcomed upon their arrival.
Despite being placed in the tough group, Indonesia coach Shin Tae-yong was hopeful to guide his team to the Asian Cup knockout stage for the first time in history.
“Our goal is to give a strong show in the group stage despite the difficulty of the task facing teams with great experience,” he said.
Indonesia will meet Iraq in their first game on January 15 at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.