“World Cup Day” raises expectations for Chinese soccer

BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) — A crucial tie at the women’s World Cup and a belated scoring binge by Chinese men in a Russia 2018 qualifier have raised China’s expectations for the most popular game.

The two games held 12 hours and 11,000km apart were hailed by Chinese as “a stepping stone” to greater successes.

“They are a good oman for the Chinese soccer reform,” said a commentary by China’s leading news portal Sina after China routed Bhutan 6-0 in Thimphu on Tuesday night, 12 hours after the Chinese women advanced into the last 16 in the World Cup in Canada.

The women’s side, victims to a refereeing mistake in their opening 1-0 loss to hosts Canada, were awarded a controversial penalty in a 2-2 draw with New Zealand, which ensured a berth at the knockout stage.

Chinese back home agreed the team were lucky but they deserved a spot in last 16.

In the other side of the world, the Chinese men snatched the lopsided win over Bhutan in the Asian Zone World Cup qualifiers.