Asian Games Rival Watch: India's opponents China PR

India will take on hosts China on 19 September.

The Indian U-23 squad is gearing up for a crucial encounter against China PR U-23 in their opening match of group stage of the Asian Games. The Indian team will then play against against Bangladesh (September 21) and Myanmar (September 24).

The upcoming encounter will mark the second meeting between India U-23 and China PR U-23 within a span of 10 days, with China U-23 having previously secured a 2-1 victory in the AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualification match.

Before the Asian Games start, let’s have a closer look at the China PR U-23 team.

Recent Performances

China PR U-23 started the qualification round 2 group stage of the U-23 AFC Asian Cup with a goalless draw against the UAE U-23 before securing a 2-1 victory over India U-23 as mentioned above. Their recent track record in 2023 has seen them take the field another four times. Among these fixtures, they secured a notable 1-0 victory against Korea Republic U-23. However, they faced setbacks in the other three encounters, succumbing to a 3-1 loss against Korea Republic U-23, a narrow 2-1 defeat to New Zealand U-23, and another loss to New Zealand U-23 with a 2-0 scoreline.

This mixed bag of results paints an intriguing picture for the Chinese U-23 squad as they prepare to face India U-23 in their upcoming clash. With their recent form showing both resilience and vulnerability, this contest promises to be a pivotal moment as China will look to win consecutive matches against India.

The Coach

Dejan Đurđević began his football journey with Kolubara before moving to OFK Beograd in 1989. He then ventured to Sweden, joining Vasalunds IF. Returning to OFK Beograd in 1998, he spent two seasons with the club.

After retiring as a player, he delved into coaching, initially with OFK Beograd's youth system. He later managed the Serbia U-17s and achieved success in the 2008 UEFA European Under-17 Championship. His managerial career took him to various clubs, including Čukarički and Pakhtakor Tashkent in Uzbekistan. He also had a stint with Radnički Kragujevac and then returned to OFK Beograd. In 2023, he took the helm as the head coach of China U-23.

Players To Watch

Tan Long

The Indian defense should closely monitor Tan Long, an experienced player with a potent presence. The towering striker has been on fire this season, notching nine goals in 24 games for Changchun Yatai in the Chinese Super League. Having previously played in the MLS, his versatility has matured with age, delivering an impressive 26 goal contributions over his last two seasons. Tan Long's form makes him a significant threat and a player of note in the upcoming contest.

Tao Qianglong

Another player to keep a close watch on in the clash between China PR and India is Tao Qianglong, who represents Wuhan Three Towns FC, domestically. Operating as an attacking midfielder, Tao plays a pivotal role in orchestrating his team's top-flight performances. With three goals and an assist to his name in just 13 matches this season, he poses a significant threat from midfield.

Tao converted a penalty kick to give China the lead in the previous match against India and was quite influential throughout the game, in and out of possession. To secure victory in this match, India must diligently mark Tao and deny him the space to dictate the game. It's a midfield battle that promises to be a key factor in the outcome of this Asian Games encounter.

What To Expect

The clash between China PR U-23, guided by seasoned coach Đurđević, and India U-23, led by Igor Stimac, promises to be an intriguing battle. Đurđević, with a diverse coaching career, brings experience to the Chinese side. Despite a mixed record in recent matches, his tactical acumen could pose challenges for India.

On the other hand, Igor Stimac, the coach of the Indian team, aims to inspire his squad with the leadership of veteran Sunil Chhetri. The forthcoming clash in the Asian Games promises an enthralling spectacle, as India's competitive spirit meets China's unpredictability, making it a match that could swing in favour of either side.