AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers Rival Watch: China PR

China PR played a goalless draw in their last encounter

The Indian U-23 squad is gearing up for a crucial encounter against China PR U-23 in their opening match of qualification round 2 group stage of the U23 AFC Asian Cup. Originally slated to face the Maldives U-23 team, India's plans were reshuffled as the Maldives withdrew from the qualification round, leading to the cancellation of the fixture.

On the other hand, China U-23 has already commenced their campaign, locking horns with the UAE U-23 on September 6th, resulting in a goalless draw. As India takes the field against China, anticipation runs high as both teams seek to secure a favorable start in this U23 AFC Asian Cup qualification round. It's a clash that promises to set the tone for their respective journeys in the tournament.

Let’s have a close look at the China PR U-23 team.

Recent Performances

China PR U-23 entered the qualification round 2 group stage of the U23 AFC Asian Cup with a goalless draw against the UAE U-23. Their recent track record in 2023 has seen them take the field 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 score line.

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 in their U23 AFC Asian Cup journey.

The Coach

DejanĐurđević 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 U17s 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 stints with Radnički Kragujevac and returned to OFK Beograd. In 2023, he took the helm as the head coach of China U-23.

Players To Watch

Wang Yu

In the upcoming clash between China PR U-23 and India U-23, all eyes will be on Dalian Professional's rising star, Wang Yu. The 18-year-old forward burst onto the scene in China's top division and possesses a lethal combination of speed and power. Wang's goal will be to exploit India's defense, making it imperative for them to be at their best to neutralize his impact. As Clifford Miranda leads India U-23 into this match, they face the formidable challenge of containing Wang Yu's attacking prowess, setting the stage for an exciting showdown on September 9th in the U23 AFC Asian Cup qualification round.

Tao Qianglong

Another player to keep a close watch on in the clash between China PR U-23 and India U-23 is Tao Qianglong, representing Wuhan Three Towns FC. 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. 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 U23 AFC Asian Cup qualification round encounter.

What To Expect

The clash between China PR U-23, guided by seasoned coach Đurđević, and India U-23, led by Clifford Miranda, 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, Clifford Miranda, known for his astute footballing mind, will seek to leverage his team's enthusiasm and energy. With India's competitive spirit and China's unpredictability, this encounter in the U23 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers hints at a captivating contest that could sway in either team's favor.