BEIJING: Chinese President Xi Jinping has cast doubt on the abilities of the national men’s football team, expressing uncertainty about their performance, despite their recent victory over Thailand. The rare off-the-cuff remark was made during an informal conversation with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. In a video posted by a Thai government account on X, formerly Twitter, Xi mentioned that he believes luck played a significant role in the recent victory.
Xi, a self-proclaimed football fan who dreams of China hosting and winning a World Cup, appeared to be unfamiliar with the news of China’s 2-1 win over Thailand. “Because now, about our national team — I’m not so sure about their level,” Xi commented, indicating a lack of confidence in the team’s overall capabilities. Despite expressing optimism about Chinese football in the past, he acknowledged the team’s “ups and downs.”
The Chinese men’s football team has faced challenges in fulfilling Xi’s aspirations of becoming an international powerhouse. The team suffered a setback in September when they fell 0-1 to Syria in a friendly match. The defeat was met with frustration from fans and criticism from state media, labeling it “another embarrassing defeat.”
Chinese football has been under the spotlight due to a major anti-corruption campaign, leading to investigations and charges against several prominent figures, including former national coach Li Tie. This campaign has raised concerns about the integrity and management of the sport in the country.
With the start of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup and the upcoming Asian Cup in January-February in Qatar, the men’s national team faces a crucial period. Xi’s comments come amid heightened expectations and scrutiny of the team’s performance on the international stage. The president’s acknowledgment of the team’s inconsistencies reflects the challenges they are currently facing.
The long road to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico has begun in Asia, with 36 teams in action. The qualifying matches will test the resilience and capabilities of the Chinese team as they aim to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament.
Xi’s remarks highlight the uncertainties surrounding the future of Chinese football and the need for comprehensive efforts to strengthen the sport at both the grassroots and professional levels. The president’s dream of seeing China succeed on the global football stage faces obstacles, including internal challenges and the competitive landscape of international football.
As China navigates the complexities of football development, there is a broader conversation about the role of sports in the nation’s identity and global standing. Xi’s candid comments on the national football team underscore the complexities and aspirations associated with football in contemporary China, where the sport serves as a symbol of national pride and international recognition.
In the midst of these challenges, Chinese football authorities and stakeholders will need to address structural issues, invest in talent development, and create an environment conducive to sustainable success. The upcoming tournaments will serve as a litmus test for the effectiveness of these measures and the realization of President Xi’s vision for Chinese football.
