China coach Zhu Guanghu is confident his team will make it through to the 2007 Asian Cup finals despite their goalless draw with Singapore on Wednesday.

"It was a nice game," said Zhu after the Group E stalemate that leaves China needing two wins from two games to seal qualification. "My players worked very hard throughout, but we have to concentrate on finishing our scoring chances."

Does this goalless draw complicate China’s qualification?

"This point from this game is very important, I don't think we will have any problems qualifying for the next round. We have two games left and I am sure we will qualify."

Does this 0-0 draw mean there be more pressure on China in the next games?

"Everyone was expecting a win before this match started but China have to settle for a draw. But this won't stop us qualifying."

China has scored just once in two games.

"I am very disappointed with this result because we created many chances. And we were a bit unlucky."

What did you think of Wang Dong's performance?

"He was outstanding today. Why did I ask him to play right midfield? Because he has played there for Changchun, and in training as well."

In the last minute of the last game Shao Jiayi's penalty gave China three points, but in the last minute of this game he was sent off. The end-game show-stopper Shao Jiayi was red-carded in the 90th minute against Singapore while his last-minute penalty gave China three points

"We have to cut out stupid mistakes like this. He was very tired going into the game. He only arrived here early yesterday morning, and he has a flight back to Germany tonight." 

(Sinosoc.com, September 8, 2006)