China striker Wu Lei said on Tuesday that his team can win their second group match against Lebanon at the AFC Asian Cup.
Wu Lei of China speaks during a press conference ahead of the Group A match against Lebanon at the AFC Asian Cup in Doha, Qatar, Jan. 16, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Ting)
China were held to a goalless draw against Tajikistan in Group A of the continental tournament on Saturday night.
China take on Lebanon on Wednesday, while Tajikistan play hosts Qatar, who lead the group with three points after a 3-0 win over Lebanon.
"We all know the importance of this match. So do Lebanon. That means we need to be prepared for the difficulties," the Shanghai Port striker said on Tuesday.
"We hope to play our best to win the match tomorrow, and we will stick to our target to progress from this group."
A total of 24 teams have been divided into six groups at the Asian Cup, which is held from January 12 to February 10.
Six group winners and runners-up will advance to the knockout stage, along with the four best third-placed teams.
China, two-time Asia Cup runners-up, have reached the quarterfinals in the past two editions.
Wu, China's first choice striker, said that the intensity of football was very high and could be seen across all matches so far at this tournament.
"Our preparation ahead of the first game may not have been up to the level that we wanted but moving ahead, we can expect to deliver a sharper performance," said Wu, who had a three-year spell with Spanish side Espanyol.
Meanwhile, Lebanon midfielder Bassel Jradi said his side had the confidence to win the match despite being ranked lowest in the group.
"China are a very strong team and we are expecting it to be an exciting match. The players are ready and we can get the three points," said Jradi.
"We know their style of play from the first game against Tajikistan. I play my club football in Asia and I can say that I'm familiar with what to expect from them," he added.
