AFC Asian Cup: China coach Jankovic says team in ‘privileged position’ before critical Qatar clash
- China must beat hosts Qatar on Monday to guarantee reaching last 16, but one point could still seal qualification
- Only in three previous editions, the last in 2011, have China failed to successfully navigate group stage
Aleksandar Jankovic said China were in a “privileged position”, with the under-fire national team’s Asian Cup destiny in their own hands ahead of Monday’s decisive game against hosts Qatar.
China were short of imagination in stalemates with Tajikistan and Lebanon but a point from each leaves them second in Group A. However, head coach Jankovic’s team are vulnerable to being overhauled by either of their previous opponents if they lose to the defending champions at Khalifa International Stadium.
Jankovic’s team must also shrug off pressure from the reaction at home – where critical verdicts followed both scoreless draws – if they slump to a first group-stage exit since 2011. On that occasion, defeat by Qatar at the same venue sealed their fate.
“I am happy to be part of this big event, and important moment,” Jankovic said. “The whole squad is motivated to perform well and … go through to the knockout stage.
“It is a privilege for a sportsperson when he can decide his own destiny. That is the very clear message [to players].”
He added: “For us, it is very simple. We will play 11 v 11 over 90 minutes, and not look around and follow the other scoreline. We are privileged, honoured, excited and motivated to play this game.”