China striker Wu Lei after their win over Palestine in an international friendly in Dalian, China, June 20, 2023. /CFP
China head coach Aleksandar Jankovic was full of praise for Wu Lei after the veteran striker's starring role in their 2-0 home win over Palestine in an international friendly.
The 31-year-old, a leading light in Shanghai Port's challenge for the Chinese Super League title this season, bagged his 30th international goal after turning home Gao Zhunyi's cut-back from close range in the first half. Wu has now equaled Liu Haiguang's record and become China's all-time joint-top goalscorer.
"Wu's role in our team is not just about scoring goals," Jankovic said during the post-match press conference.
China striker Wu Lei runs forward with the ball during their clash with Palestine in an international friendly in Dalian, China, June 20, 2023. /CFP
"His linking play and running can help us better tear apart the opponent's defense, creating more space and better scoring opportunities for his teammates.
"Through his excellent individual abilities, he has improved the performance of his teammates. His style of playing can help his teammates become better players.
"If I could train with my players every day, I would be the happiest person in the world, but that's not possible because they also have league matches to play. We will review today's game carefully, make adjustments, and strive to do better in the next game.
"We deserved this victory, our team had some good highlights, but there are still areas that need to be improved. Our journey is still long and requires us to take it step by step, but we are on the right path."
China striker Wu Lei (#7) celebrates with teammates during their clash with Palestine in an international friendly in Dalian, China, June 20, 2023. /CFP
Jankovic's optimism was echoed by Wu, who made a point to take a lap of honor at full-time to acknowledge the fervent home supporters.
"I'm grateful to the fans who were at the stadium," said Wu. "Without their enthusiastic support and the incredible atmosphere they created, we wouldn't have had such a strong drive to perform. The fans in Dalian are incredibly passionate and have been a tremendous help to us.
"The opponent wasn't particularly strong, but we needed this victory to build our confidence. Whether it's the World Cup qualifiers or the Asian Cup, when we face teams weaker than us, we need to maintain our confidence and make them fear us."