The Chinese National Team has been facing some significant defensive issues during their friendly matches against Qatar. The team's defense was often criticized for its lack of quality and ability to contain opponents' attacks. This is due to several factors including the players' age, fitness levels, and overall training routine.
One of the main concerns of the Chinese national team is the quality of their defenders. Some of their key defenders have struggled to keep up with the pace of the game and were unable to make decisive tackles or interceptions. This led to several costly mistakes by the team that ultimately cost them valuable points.
Another issue is the players' fitness levels. While the team's youth squad has shown promise, there is still room for improvement. Players such as Li Yuzhen, who played at the Under-23 level, have not yet reached the peak performance level required for professional football. Similarly, other key players like Zhou Xunbo, Wang Xiaohua, and Zhang Xiaolong may need more time to develop into elite performers.
Furthermore, the team's defense also suffered from poor communication among its players. It is common for teams to rely on certain players to take charge of the defense, but sometimes it becomes difficult to coordinate these players effectively when they are working together outside of the field. This can lead to missed opportunities and weaken the team's defensive setup.
To address these issues, the Chinese National Team needs to focus on improving the quality of its defenders, developing a strong youth squad, and ensuring proper training and nutrition. Additionally, better communication between players will help to improve coordination and create a cohesive defense. By doing so, the team can improve their defensive skills and reduce the chances of conceding goals in future matches.