China U23 football team prepares for Asian Games

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China’s men's Under 23 football team is preparing in eastern city of Suzhou ahead of the Asian Games in Jakarta, and will play their last friendly game with Iran before heading to Jakarta.

China are in Group C at the Asian Games with teams Syria, Timor-Leste and the United Arab Emirates who replaced Iraq. China's U23 beat Malaysia 2-1 in a friendly last Sunday, and Thursday's game with Iran will give them more knowledge about West Asia's football teams.

Chinese U23 team trains under Italian coach Massimiliano Maddaloni. /VCG Photo

Meanwhile, the Italian coach of the Chinese side, Massimiliano Maddaloni said, "We take these two friendlies seriously, we have strong opponents. Malaysia played well at the Asian Championships this year, while Iran did a good job in the Russia World Cup."

"We will learn more about our athletes through the game, and will decide the final team list for the Asian Games."

Meanwhile, China’s Under 23 player Zhang Yuning said, "After the game with Malaysia, we now have a more specific goal. We are going to play Asian Games."

All eyes will be on Thursday's game as a 20-player shortlist will be selected and decided after the friendly.