China national team needs more luck to pass over Uzbekistan

Though China defeated Saudi Arabia 1-0 in its opener at the Asian Cup four days ago, Chinese media believed the team faces tough challenge from next opponent Uzbekistan in the second round of action at the continental tournament.

On the opening match, goalkeeper Wang Dalei became the hero who blocked the penalty from Saudi Arabia and China claimed the 1-0 victory from a lucky freekick by Yu Hai.

However, Chinese media are not optimistic about the second round match against Uzbekistan, which will be played later on Wednesday. It was reported that Chinese coach Alain Perrin may add a defender in China's line-up later in order to stem Uzbekistan's powerful attacks.

The history that China has never beaten Uzbekistan in the Asian Cup before issued a warning to the Chinese players.

"We can use fully our defenders' attacking abilities. What's more, our players should become more confident," Fan Zhiyi, China's former Asian footballer of the year, was quoted by web portal Netease.com as saying on Wednesday.

He also suggested a 5-3-2 formation when facing Uzbekistan.

Having been knocked out of the AFC Asian Cup at the group stage on the last two tournaments in 2007 and 2011, China will hope they can continue their winning ways and reach the quarterfinals in the Cup.

Former China assistant coach Xu Tao was quoted by Sina.com saying: "Whether win or lose, the Asian Cup will make the immature team grow up."