Now that the 2014 World Cup has ended, some Chinese are looking for ways to increase the country's participation in the global sporting event.

Hosting the prestigious soccer tournament has become a stronger possibility, given President Xi Jinping's high interest in the game and the country's fast economic growth, observers said.

"There is a possibility that China will host the World Cup in the next 20 years as its fast-growing economy appeals to FIFA," said Adam Zhang, founder of sports consultancy company Key-Sports.