Shenzhen begins preparations for the Asian Cup as the Chinese women's football team seeks to rebuild confidence.

Reported by Wang Wei. On January 6, the Chinese women's football team commenced a new training session at the Shenzhen football youth training base, which is also their first practice of 2026. The team will train over two months in two stages, dedicating all efforts to the Asian Cup in Australia this March.

Following the heavy 0-8 loss to England in London last November, confidence was hit hard both inside and outside the team. The public expressed significant dissatisfaction, and there were rumors about a possible coaching change. Regarding this defeat, Milicic admitted it was indeed disappointing, "But the most important thing is that we learn and gain experience from it. After going through such a match, we will be stronger. Now, our focus is back on the Asian stage. In two months, we will face the challenge of the Asian Cup."

"Young players can learn a lot from that kind of match; they now understand the intensity of European women's football and have experienced the atmosphere at Wembley Stadium, which will be a lifelong memory for them. Of course, losing is painful, but I am one hundred percent sure this will make us stronger in the future," Milicic said.

The current Shenzhen training camp for the Chinese women's team runs from January 4 to 22. Milicic stated the goal is to assess the players’ conditions and help them return to their best form. During the second training phase from late January to early February, a friendly match will be arranged every three days to simulate situations the team may face in the Asian Cup.

This training session has called up 24 players, a noticeable change from the previous 26-player roster, especially with over half of the goalkeepers and defenders replaced. Milicic commented, "The national team doors are open to all outstanding players. Performance at club level and actual national team form can differ. We need to evaluate players’ tactical fit, team integration, and overall ability through training camps. This is both responsible to the players and essential for selecting the strongest squad."

There have also been changes in the coaching staff, with local coaches Qu Chuliang and Wang Hongliang joining to inject new energy into the team. Milicic said, "Local coaches bring fresh perspectives. We learn from each other and grow together, which is crucial for the team's progress."

Qu Chuliang, who has experience working with both the men's and women's national teams, focuses on goalkeeper training. Wang Hongliang, who recently led the U17 women's team to qualify for the World Cup at the end of last year, will serve as an assistant coach.

The Asian Cup will be held in Australia from March 1 to 21. China is grouped in Group B with North Korea, Bangladesh, and Uzbekistan. The public generally believes that aside from North Korea, the other two teams pose little threat. However, Milicic disagrees, "I have participated in the World Cup and Asian Cup and am familiar with such tournaments. We shouldn't look too far ahead. Instead, China must focus on itself, play well in the first match, and then move forward. The team is in a transition phase between generations and cannot underestimate any opponent."

Young player Wang Aifang is full of anticipation for the Asian Cup, "I really want to play in this tournament and hope to achieve good results. I will prepare fully! In the next two months, I will focus on strengthening my fitness and individual skills, hoping to earn a spot on the Asian Cup roster and contribute to the team."

Captain Wu Haiyan also reflected on the 0-8 loss, "After that defeat, the coaches and leaders gave us a lot of confidence. We recognized where the gaps lie and saw both our weaknesses and strengths. With two months left before the Asian Cup, we clearly understand the directions for improvement. I believe with preparation, the team can compete at its best in the Asian Cup."

In the last Asian Cup, the Chinese women's team won the championship, but Wu Haiyan missed it due to injury. This time, she is eager to defend the title. "This will likely be my last Asian Cup in my career. I will definitely give my all and seize the chance, hoping to win the championship," Wu said. She noted that some senior players in the team have been excellent role models, "We lead by example in training and matches, spreading positive energy. Tactically, we will certainly provide much support to the younger players. The coaching team still trusts us."

Over the past year, Wu Haiyan has played more than 50 matches, which is a new challenge for her. Speaking about nearing the end of her career, she choked up, "For me, every match might be the last, so I cherish each one. The Chinese women's team is facing difficulties now, but we have confidence to overcome them."