Chinese national team coach doesn't care about scandal involving former player Li Tie bribing and fixing matches

"We are excited and looking forward to tomorrow's match. We came here and focused on football. We hope the Chinese team will have a successful tournament. We respect all the opponents in the group. We will do everything we can to win tomorrow's match and start this tournament smoothly," coach Aleksandar Jankovic opened the press conference.

Chinese team coach doesn't care about Mr. Li Tie

Recently, the Chinese football world was shocked when it was reported that former coach Li Tie spent 418,500 USD to take the captain's seat of the national team. When asked if the above serious incident would affect the Chinese team before the 2023 Asian Cup, coach Aleksandar Jankovic asserted: "I only focus on the match with Tajikistan. I do not care or comment on that. The Asian Cup is a top tournament, a beautiful playground, we focus on the tournament."

Former Chinese national team coach Li Tie

When asked about China's preparations for the match against Tajikistan, the Chinese captain said: "Football is now global, we know enough about our opponents and so do our opponents. There are no secrets. I respect our opponents but I believe in my players, they have enough ability to win. The first match is very important, we have to focus from the first minute. Prepare, play hard, don't be discouraged, win and then focus on the second match.

In all tournaments, the first match in the group stage is very important, greatly affecting the progression. No team wants to leave after the group stage in this tournament. I want everyone to hear good things, but everyone is cautious. That is because I want to focus on each match. I understand the expectations of the fans and the media."

Also attending the press conference with coach Aleksandar Jankovic was player Yan Junling. He said: "We are a team and are very excited to participate in the Asian Cup. We are well prepared, wanting to win tomorrow's match to give to the fans. In this tournament, China has some young U.23 players, but they are qualified, ready to play for the national team. This is the third time I participate in the Asian Cup, I use my experience to share with the young players, they need to focus on the matches".

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