China missed out on the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup, but redeemed itself by qualifying for this year’s tournament. The Steel Roses will bring a young squad to Canada with hopes of re-establishing themselves as a top-10 team in the women’s game.
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Roster
Goalkeepers: Zhang Yue, Wang Shimeng and Zhao Lina
Defenders: Li Jiayue, Liu Shanshan, Lyu Siqi, Pang Fengyue, Wu Haiyan and Zhong Xiudong
Midfielders: Wang Shanshan, Gao Qi, Gu Yasha, Han Peng, Ren Guixin, Tan Ruyin, Tang Jiali, Wang Lisi and Zhang Rui
Forwards: Li Ying, Zhao Rong, Lou Jiahui and Gu Yasha
Coach
Hao Wei was named as an assistant coach in 2011, but after China failed to qualify for the 2012 Olympics, Hao was promoted to manager. Since then, he’s guided the Chinese to the semifinals of the 2014 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, losing to eventual winners Japan in extra time.
Group A schedule
June 6: vs. Canada in Edmonton
June 11: vs. Netherlands in Edmonton
June 15: vs. New Zealand in Winnipeg
How they qualified
China finished second in their group at the Asian Cup last year, which clinched their spot in the 2015 Women’s World Cup.
Team strengths
China is an attack-minded team and will be a handful for the other sides in Group A. However, the Chinese are also very organized defensively and have a strong understanding with one another.
Team weaknesses
China’s youth could be an issue, since many of the players are inexperienced at this level. On the other hand, it could prove valuable in the latter stages of a match thanks to their impeccable stamina.
Player to watch
With top-class striker Yang Li out injured, the pressure will be on youngster Li Ying to lead the line for China.
Burning question
Can they overcome the loss of Yang Li? Yang tied for the Golden Boot at the 2014 Asian Cup, scoring six goals in five matches. But she’s been ruled out for this summer’s World Cup due to injury.
Prospects
China was a dominant force in women’s soccer during the 1990s. The Steel Roses have bee in decline the past few years, but are on the rise and should be competitive for years to come. Making an appearance in the knockout stage has to be the minimum goal. However, Group A will be tough with Canada, New Zealand and the Netherlands, who is making its first appearance at the World Cup.
World Cup history
1991 – Quarterfinals
1995 – Semifinals (fourth place)
1999 – Runners-up
2003 – Quarterfinals
2007 – Quarterfinals
2011 – Did not qualify