Chinese team return to heroes' welcome despite Asian Cup exit

Wang Dalei (C) and Zhang Linpeng (R) of the Chinese national soccer team arrive at Beijing International Airport on Jan. 24, 2015. (Photo source: Xinhua)

The Chinese national soccer team received a warm welcome at Beijing International Airport early Saturday morning after their quarter-final loss in the Asian Cup.

China qualified for the knockout stage for the first time since 2004 but failed to carry on their fairy-tale run, losing to hosts Australia 2-0 in the quarters.

The team beat Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan and DPR Korea in the four-team group stage.

In contrast to bad feedbacks after their previous defeats, fans reacted with praises and encouragements. It was a touching moment when players saw a huge throng of fans waiting in the airport lobby, some of whom stayed there overnight in order not to miss the team.

"I will turn 50 next year and have watched the Chinese team for most of my life. After countless failures in World Cup qualifiers including the 'Black 519' and Asian Cups, I was once totally disappointed," said Wang Jianglin, an avid fan.

The Chinese team lost to Hong Kong 2-1 in Beijing on May 19, 1985 in a World Cup qualifier when they just needed a draw to earn the ticket to the finals. Fans in Beijing rioted after the match and the day was remembered as one of the darkest moments in Chinese soccer history.

Even if heartbroken so many times, Wang would return to support the team at every glimpse of hope.

"I saw their determination this time. A last eight finish was good enough and I am looking forward to the World Cup qualifiers," he said.

The Chinese players were happy to see fans rooting for them, win or lose.

"It is so moving to see so many fans welcome us. I hope I will see such scenes every time the team return home," said Yu Hai, who scored the winner in China's 1-0 opening win over Saudi Arabia.

Defender Zhang Linpeng was being chased by supporters for photos and autographs.

"We have spared no effort, although we didn't make it to the semifinals," said Zhang. "We have created many wonderful records. We are young and still have a long way to go."

Having been drawn into a difficult group consisting of Asian's No.4-ranked side, Uzbekistan, and three-time champions Saudi Arabia, there was a feeling that a young Chinese squad would have their hands full in progressing through the first stage of the competition.

However, a revitalized team consisting entirely of domestic-based players made their intentions clear from the outset with a spirited and deserving victory over Saudi Arabia in their opening group match.

Even still, a highly rated Uzbekistan team represented the biggest threat within Group B and was next on the agenda for China. But, they soon joined Saudi Arabia as China's newest victims.

Although Odil Ahmedov gave Uzbekistan the lead early in the first half, China fought back and scored twice in 14 second-half minutes through Wu Xi and Sun Ke to again triumph.

DPR Korea would provide a stern defensive test in China's last outing throughout the group stages, but a first-half double from Sun had effectively sealed the result before their opposition could grind their way back into the match.

Despite the squad having an average age of just 25.39 years and averaging just over 26 caps between them, Frenchman Alain Perrin's team showed determination and resilience.

China has only qualified for one World Cup in the last 76 years, failing to win a point throughout their 2002 campaign.