Strive for better

With consecutive successes at the Asia Cup and the Asian Games, Zheng said that 2023 was a year of dreams coming true for her side, though she envisages a tough task in 2024.

At the last Olympic Games in Tokyo, China finished fifth after losing in the quarterfinals to Serbia.

"Qualifying for the Olympic Games is our primary goal this year. We must earn a spot at the Olympics and try to gain the best result we can to make up for the Tokyo Olympics," Zheng said.

"I hope that everyone can stay fit to play, this is my biggest wish."

Despite placing second in the world rankings, and boasting a balanced roster in terms of depth and age profile, Zheng urged a note of caution.

"We finished runners-up at the World Cup and regained the Asian Cup after a 12-year wait. We have been on the rise over the past two years, but there is still much to improve. We are not yet at our best," she explained.

"Some players have favorable physical attributes, but they are young and inexperienced and have to improve their skills. Hopefully, they can live up to their billing as a golden generation with their performances at the Olympic Games," Zheng concluded.

Xinhua