SYDNEY, March 1 (Xinhua) -- China's football star Zhang Linyan said on Sunday that she hopes to reach the final of the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup after helping China lift the trophy at the previous edition.
The tournament opened on Sunday with a clash between the Philippines and host Australia at the 60,000-seat Perth Stadium. Defending champion China, based in Sydney, will begin its campaign against Bangladesh on Tuesday.
"The goal remains the same. I hope we can fight our way to the final together," said the 25-year-old winger.
Four years ago, the speedy attacker scored a stunning header in the final as China rallied from 2-0 down to defeat South Korea 3-2 and claim the title.
"In the first match, we want to show our playing style. Of course, the priority is to win and score more goals," said Zhang, who joined Tottenham Hotspur on loan in 2023 before returning to her former club Wuhan in early 2024.
"We also need to give our best to reflect the results of the 42 days of training before coming here."
Defender Wang Ying, who joined A-League side Western Sydney Wanderers last September, was named in China's 26-player squad by head coach Ante Milicic.
"I felt very excited when I knew I could play for the national team again," said the 28-year-old.
"As I get older, I feel less nervous about major tournaments. Now I just want to gain more experience in big competitions and show the best of myself," Wang noted.
China will play all three group matches at Western Sydney Stadium, the home ground of Wang's club.
"I played one league match at this stadium. This time, it will feel like playing at home," said Wang.
The 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup is being held across Sydney, Perth and the Gold Coast from March 1 to 21. The tournament features 12 teams divided into three groups, with the top two teams from each group and the two best third-placed teams advancing to the quarterfinals. ■
