Wang Shuang is the sixth torchbearer in the opening ceremony of the 7th Military World Games in Wuhan, central China, October 18, 2019. /VCG Photo
Wang Shuang, the Asian Football Women's Player of the Year in 2018, expressed her confidence in Chinese women's football team on Saturday, believing the hosts will win the title at the 7th Military World Games now underway in Wuhan, central China.
"They will definitely win the championship," Wang said of the Chinese PLA team which includes many of her acquaintances. "They will face problems for sure. The DPRK has many national team players, who will be tough contenders for the home side."
The 24-year-old attacking midfielder participated in the military sports gala as a torch bearer at the opening ceremony on Friday night, representing athletes from her home city of Wuhan. She is the only bearer without a military background in the cauldron lighting segment.
"It's a holy moment for me. I have never been a torch bearer before," said the Chinese international. "I am really glad that my hometown could host such a big sporting event."
"As an athlete, I travel a lot. Every time I come back to Wuhan, I always see tremendous changes in its environment and transportation," the Wuhan native voiced her pride in the city.
"The tournament also marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. We could see the development of our country from the sporting event," she added.