Women’s World Cup: China captain Wang Shanshan expects ‘difficult year’ to provide physical challenge
- Steel Roses will play 2024 Paris Olympic qualifiers, Asian Games and football World Cup all in the space of just four months
- Wang says there is pressure ahead but her side is working hard to be ready for what is coming up
Chinese football captain Wang Shanshan has said her side face a physically demanding and pressured filled year, in which they play three high-profile tournaments in just four months.
The Women’s World Cup in July and August, is followed by the Asian Games and 2024 Paris Olympics qualifiers in September and October, respectively.
China, runners-up at the 1999 World Cup, are in Group D with England, Haiti and Denmark at this year’s competition, which will be held in Australia and New Zealand from July 20 to August 20.
“It is deceptive to say that there is no pressure. This year’s three major events are really very difficult for us,” the 33-year-old told Chinese state media.
“There may be more physical pressure. The three events are very close, so it is essential for us to build up our body conditions in the early stage.”
After the World Cup, China are due to take part in the Asian Games at home, scheduled for September 23 to October 8 in Hangzhou, and then the qualifiers for the Olympics from October 23 to 31.