Skipper Wu Haiyan said Monday the Chinese team was trying not to dwell on missing Lunar New Year celebrations with family as they prepare to defend their Women’s Asian Cup title.
China edged South Korea 3-2 in Mumbai four years ago to win their ninth continental crown and are the most successful team in the tournament’s history.
But they have struggled in recent times, slipping to 17 in the world and desperately want to kickstart their tournament in Sydney on Tuesday with a statement win against debutants Bangladesh.
Seasoned defender Wu admitted they were pining for home during a period traditionally spent with family, but would not let it affect their performance.
“We know our responsibilities as players,” said Wu.
“Even though it’s Chinese New Year and we would like to be with our families, we have to put that aside and put our concentration and focus on this tournament.”
Wu missed China’s title-winning run in India in 2022 with injury, and it is fuelling her motivation for success in Australia.
“As the captain, I will try to fight and lead my team to go further,” she said.
“The national team is coming off a low point and received a lot of criticism, so we are motivated to give a good performance.”
They should have few problems against a Bangladesh side at the Asian Cup for the first time and ranked the lowest of the 12 teams. Bangladesh skipper Afeida Khandaker said her side was approaching the match with excitement rather than fear.
“We are not feeling pressured even though this is our debut,” she said. “We want to make the people of Bangladesh proud.” Uzbekistan and three-time winners North Korea are also in their group. They too meet in Sydney on Tuesday.