Shang Ruihua is still sore about losing to Sweden in the quarterfinal of the 1991 women's World Cup, but he will need some luck to beat them at the upcoming Olympics.
Shang Ruihua. China Daily
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"We are not a top level team any more," the 63-year-old told China Daily.
"Though we weren't drawn with Germany, US or Brazil, we don't have an edge over the other teams in our (Olympic) group. We will have to play our best if we want to beat them. "
The struggling "Steel Roses" got a shot in the arm on Saturday when they were drawn in a favorable group with Sweden, Canada and Argentina.
This means they will avoid title favorites the US, the reigning Olympic champs, as well as World Cup winners Germany and Brazil, who will be led by the legendary Marta.
None of the teams China has been drawn with made it to the second round of last year's World Cup, also staged in China. At its best, the host will fancy its chances against two of them, but Sweden will be a more formidable foe in light of their previous encounters.
The Scandinavians dumped China out of the 1991 World Cup, a memory that still rankles with Shang as it triggered his resignation.
"It was a long time ago. Everything is different now. I don't think the upcoming re-match should be viewed as a grudge match.
"We must concentrate on our own preparations. We will compete in some warm-ups first to build teamwork and strengthen our conditioning."
"Sweden is the strongest team in the group. There is some pressure on us as it will be our first game, and it takes place before the opening ceremony."
China will open its Olympic campaign against the Swedes on Oct 6 in Tianjin, two days before the Games officially get started.
"A disappointing performance will have a negative impact on all of our Olympic teams," he added.
Shang was handed the reins late last month after Frenchwoman Elisabeth Loisel was sacked due to frequent rows with Chinese officials and her players.
As the man who helped build the silver medal-winning team of the 1996 Atlanta Games - a feat it repeated at the 1999 World Cup - Shang believes his experience will be vital.
"I am not as young and energetic as other coaches, but I am more experienced in coaching women's teams. I will try my best to dig deeper for the team."
"Although the team is still not at its best, the players are showing signs of revival."
The team has hit a downward spiral in the last decade, dropping to 14th in the latest FIFA world rankings, its lowest rank to date. Neighboring Japan is world No 6 and North Korea No 10.
