Part of China's soccer reforms is making China Football Association an independent body from the country's sports administration. (Photo : Reuters)
Corruption scandals and far-from-desirable international results have marred the enthusiasm for football in China, but it looks like things are about to change. Soccer is being met with renewed vigor in the country, thanks to the victories the Chinese national soccer team has achieved in the Women’s World Cup.
On Saturday, June 20, the Chinese national soccer team won 1-0 against Cameroon, which sealed its fate as one of the quarter-finalists in the tournament hosted in Canada.
"No matter how far they go, these women deserve applause for their dedication, persistence, and hard work during a tough time for the game in China," said Shen Fangjiang, a commentator working for the China Central Television.
It is the first time the national team has reappeared in the World Cup quarterfinals since 1993, which greatly improved the country's enthusiasm toward the sport. The country plans on improving the game level of Chinese soccer players to become elite athletes.
"The women's team experienced a low period, as the men's counterpart did in the past decade. And we are still struggling uphill to return to full strength," said Yu Hongchen, vice president of the Chinese Football Association (CFA).
"Today's result reflects that the entire system behind the women's national team--including youth recruitment, elite training, and logistical support--has been improved as the central government's soccer-boosting plan envisioned. It inspires greater participation game at the grassroots level. But we still lag behind the world's elites, and we have a lot of work to do."
The State Council approved on February President Xi Jinping's ambitious plan to reform and develop the sport, particularly toward women and youth. It is a big step toward the improvement of the state of soccer in China, which has suffered in recent years due to numerous scandals, lackluster performances, and thin reserve talent pool.
Soccer veteran Wen Lirong, who now works for the CFA, is optimistic about the sudden change of tune.
"Women's soccer has a unique beauty--athleticism combined with feminine charm. I believe with more media coverage the World Cup performance will attract more fans and inspire more young women to play," Wen said.
