In China, football holds the title of the most popular sport, and the women’s national team has achieved remarkable success on the global stage. Known as the ‘Steel Roses,’ they have been a force in international football since their inaugural match in 1986, which resulted in a narrow 2-1 loss to the United States. Since then, they have established themselves as the most successful team in Asian Cup history, having claimed the tournament’s top honours on nine occasions, never finishing below fourth place.
Their dominance of the Asian Cup began immediately in their debut year, as they clinched the championship. They went on to achieve this feat six more times consecutively. Furthermore, they have a record of nine Asian Cup victories and were runners-up in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
For the upcoming 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, China has been drawn into Group D alongside Denmark, Haiti, and England. They aim to advance beyond the group stage for the first time since 2007.
Presently ranked 14th by FIFA, China unveiled their final squad of 23 players on July 10, 2023. The team consists of a blend of seasoned players and emerging talents, with influential figures such as Wang Shanshan and Wang Shuang leading the way. With a solid defensive unit, creative midfielders, and skilled forwards, the Chinese team possesses a formidable lineup.
🚨 Qingixia Shui announces the
China squad for the 2023 @FIFAWWC! pic.twitter.com/1ApdwJVj6w— ata football (@atafball) July 10, 2023
Though the final squad is strong, some notable players may have missed out due to injuries or competition for positions.
Heading the team as head coach is Shui Qingxia, who has been at the helm since 2019. Under her guidance, the China women’s national team has achieved several notable accomplishments, including winning the Asian Cup in 2022. Shui Qingxia has a commendable track record in international football and is recognized for her attacking style of play. Her ambition is to guide China to its first FIFA Women’s World Cup victory in 2023.
China enters the tournament as one of the dark horses, possessing a strong team brimming with experience. They aspire to progress from the group stage and contend for the title. Wang Shanshan, Wang Shuang, and Tang Jiali are key players expected to lead the charge, renowned for their goal-scoring abilities, and pivotal to China’s chances of success.
Although their performances at the Olympics were disappointing, China PR thrives on an attacking approach, utilizing pressing tactics and seeking opportunities to outnumber opponents. Their game plan revolves around pass-and-move strategies, with the formation of passing triangles and the intention to exhaust opposing defenses. Their technically gifted midfielders exploit pockets of space while orchestrating attacks. During set-pieces, they typically prioritize targeting specific players rather than intricate passing routines.
Players to keep an eye on include Wang Shuang, an imaginative and technically skilled midfielder who posed a constant threat during the Asian Cup 2022, and Wang Shanshan, a talented forward known for her ability to score crucial goals. With her physical presence and prowess in aerial duels, she remains a constant menace in the opposing team’s penalty area.
China secured their place in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup by finishing atop their group in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. They won all five group matches, including a thrilling comeback in the final against South Korea during the second half.
WHAT A GAME!!!
A thrilling second-half turnaround sees China PR claim their 9th AFC Women's Asian Cup Title 🇨🇳
First time for the Steel Roses since 2006!
🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆#WAC2022 | #WACFinal pic.twitter.com/lsHNiY2305
— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) February 6, 2022
Throughout the qualification campaign, China showcased their defensive resilience and tactical discipline, securing victories against formidable opponents. Their ability to adapt to diverse playing styles and maintain composure under pressure played a vital role in their successful qualification.
To conclude, China’s women’s national football team enters the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup with elevated expectations and a talented squad. Their illustrious history in international football, coupled with their consistent presence in major tournaments, commands respect on the global stage.
Under the guidance of Coach Shui Qingxia, the Steel Roses have demonstrated progress in recent years, both individually and as a cohesive unit. With their formidable defensive capabilities and potent attacking options, China possesses the potential to embark on a deep run in the tournament and challenge the world’s finest teams.
Written by Unnati Naidu
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