Problems run deep as Chinese football 'slides into abyss'

China's dismal performance in the Asian Cup has brought the country's football woes to the forefront. Despite hoping to progress to the knockout stages as one of the best third-placed teams, China failed to score a goal in any of their three matches and their campaign came to an end. The Oriental Sports Daily described it as "Chinese football sliding into the abyss."

China's first match against Tajikistan ended in a goalless draw, followed by another stalemate against Lebanon. In their final group game against holders Qatar, China suffered a 1-0 defeat, sealing their fate. The team missed several chances in the first half, leaving Serbian coach Aleksandar Jankovic expecting the sack. It would be China's fourth time exiting in the group stage, but this time without a win or a goal.

Off the field, the Chinese Football Association has also faced scandal and corruption allegations. Former coach Li Tie admitted to paying bribes to secure the job and being involved in domestic match-fixing. Chen Xuyuan, the former president of the Chinese Football Association, appeared grim-faced in a television program alongside Li Tie and is currently detained and under investigation for corruption.

China's football landscape is plagued by various issues. Lack of young talent is seen as a major setback, hindering the progress of football in the country. President Xi Jinping's goal of China hosting and winning the World Cup seems increasingly far-fetched. The recent dissolution of Chinese Super League clubs Shenzhen FC and Dalian Pro due to financial problems highlights the crisis. The Global Times characterized the national team's performance as a "glaring portrayal" of the current state of Chinese football.

The problems run deeper than just mismanaged finances. The report highlighted that since 2020, 39 professional teams have gone bankrupt, with Jiangsu FC being a notable example. Many teams relied on single investors, often real estate companies, and when financial difficulties arose, they simply withdrew support.

Critics have also pointed fingers at coach Aleksandar Jankovic for the national team's poor performance. Despite limitations and an aging squad, pundits expected better results, putting the blame on Jankovic. The Oriental Sports Daily emphasized the disappointment of not scoring a goal in three games and suggested that a change in coaching is necessary.

Chinese football faces significant challenges that extend beyond the Asian Cup campaign. From corruption scandals to financial mismanagement and a lack of investment in youth development, the road to improvement will be long and arduous. The hope is that Chinese authorities and football stakeholders will address these issues and work towards a brighter future for the sport in the country.