JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, Jan. 23 (Xinhua) — Chinese national team head coach Antonio Puche Vicente said on Friday that the team will go all-out to fight for the possible historic title as his team is set to meet Japan in the final of the 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup here on Saturday.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Vicente described the final as a landmark moment for the Chinese side and said winning the championship remains a major goal.
“Tomorrow is very important for us. It will be a historic match,” the Spainish coach said. “We want to win the title. It is very difficult, but we are now in the final and have a good opportunity. For us, it would be a very big dream.”
The 54-year-old added that team is in good spirits ahead of the final, while acknowledging the strength of their opponents.
“Our players have confidence, and belief is important in football,” he said. “Japan have defeated many strong teams. We will give our maximum effort and fight until the end. Football can be realistic, but sometimes extraordinary things happen. We will try to make that happen.”
China advanced to the final after a 3-0 win over Vietnam in the semifinals, during which Vicente rotated six starters and adjusted his tactics. Asked whether further changes would be made for the final, the coach declined to reveal details.
“You will see tomorrow,” he said. “We know we need to adapt to the match.”
Chinese full-back Hu Hetao said the team is fully prepared for the final and determined to seize the opportunity.
“It is an honor to play on this stage,” Hu said. “The whole team is ready. The final against Japan will be difficult, but we will not give up and will strive to create history.”
Hu, who has previously faced Japan at both senior and youth international levels, said China must focus on its own strengths.
“Japan is among the top teams in Asia in terms of technical and tactical level, and they are very strong as a unit,” he said. “We need to play to our own characteristics and strengths to have a chance to win.” ■
