Wang Shuang-led China ready to fire against South Africa

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After losing 1-0 to two-time world champions Germany in their Women's World Cup opener on Saturday, China have now moved to Paris where they will face South Africa on Thursday. The PRC side have to win their second Group B match to retain hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

At their first training session in Paris, the Steel Roses welcomed some local children and forward Lou Jiahui overcame the language barrier to teach them some basic tricks.

Star player Wang Shuang meanwhile explained her failure to start against Germany.

Head coach Jia Xiuquan said she was not at her best, prompting rumors of discord inside the team. At the training session however, Wang agreed with Jia.

"I think I'm not at my best, and I want to thank Coach Jia and my teammates for helping me find my way back during this time," she said.

"Coach Jia is like our father, who sometimes severely criticized our weaknesses, but really does a lot for this team to help us improve and change our tactics. Now we need to increase our energy level, and strengthen our teamwork in high stakes matches, as well as play and enjoy the games," she added.

On Tuesday, New Zealand will face the Netherlands in Group E, while in Group F, the United States begin their title defense against Thailand, and Chile take on Sweden.