Surprise Twist: If China’s U22 Wants a Winning Start vs Iraq, Fans Say These Three Players Must Be Trusted More

Recently, China’s U22 national team has been preparing for the U23 Asian Cup under head coach Antonio—an exciting development that many fans are eagerly anticipating. That excitement is understandable: since entering the U23 Asian Cup, China has yet to advance beyond the group stage. Now, this highly regarded generation led by Wang Yudong is determined to break that long-standing barrier and finally push through into the knockout rounds.

To make that goal a reality, China simply cannot afford any slip-ups in the opening match against Iraq. A strong start matters, and if China can defeat Iraq in the first game, their chances of progressing from the group would rise significantly.

Interestingly, when China’s U22s competed in the inaugural edition of the U23 Asian Cup, their first opponent was also Iraq. China’s overall performance in that match was respectable, but defensive lapses proved costly. Iraq capitalized on the moment, scored a late winner, and China narrowly lost 0–1 after 90 minutes of intense action.

Now, twelve years later, the two sides meet again on the youth Asian Cup stage. If China want to settle that score and turn past disappointment into motivation, they will need their key players—Wang Yudong, Kuai Jiwen, and Xiang Yuwang—to be fully switched on and ready to deliver together.

Wang Yudong is a forward with a complete attacking toolkit. He can create danger with pinpoint deliveries and also finish clinically when chances appear. Importantly, he already has experience from a previous U23 Asian Cup, where he was more of a fringe option—taken along primarily to absorb the atmosphere of a major tournament under Cheng Yaodong. This time, the expectation is different: Wang is being counted on to lead from the front and take on the responsibility of a true core player.

For Kuai Jiwen and Xiang Yuwang, this tournament represents their first U23 Asian Cup journey—another reason fans are watching closely. Supporters hope the coaching staff will prioritize unlocking the form and confidence of these three players, so the team can hit full stride from the very first match.

Many fans are even dreaming big: a convincing 2–0 win over Iraq to secure the perfect opening result, with Wang Yudong and Kuai Jiwen stepping up to deliver decisive goals and set China firmly on the path toward qualification.