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High-stakes game for Camacho (2)

By Chen Xiangfeng (China Daily)

08:22, March 21, 2013

Camacho is well aware of the significance of beating Iraq in a bid to keep the team's hopes of advancing to the Asian Cup finals alive as well as relieve the huge burden on the side from the fans and media.

"We are under pressure after the first loss. Every game is significant for us now," he said. "It's the national team and we have the responsibility to try our best. In Changsha, we must win.

"We have to be focused from the first minute and to show the determination that we are the favorites to win the game.

"I also hope fans can keep their trust and support of the team. Come to the stadium and cheer our games."

Lippi to take over?

Even if Beckham, who was invited by Chinese Football Association to tour the country in a bid to improve soccer's image here, does somehow bring some good luck to Camacho and his team, it might not be enough to end fans' calls for the Spaniard's dismissal.

"China's third match in the Asian Cup qualifying will come in October, and that would provide a long break for the CFA to find a coaching replacement and for the newcomer to adjust the team and reshape players' form," fan Liu Bin said on leading portal sports.sina.com.

Some have even called for Italian Marcello Lippi, now coach of league champion Guangzhou Evergrande, to take over the national job and lead the team out of the doldrums.

Lippi will be at Friday night's game, but the Italian World Cup-winning coach insists he will be there only to watch the performances of his Guangzhou players.

New CFA boss Zhang Jian,Vice-President Yu Hongchen and sports Vice-Minister Cai Zhenhua will also be present.

Yu admits Iraq is a strong opponent, which beat China twice — home and away — in World Cup qualifying preliminary clashes.

"We have to fully prepare for this critical game," he said. "We know lots of people will turn their attention to this home game. I hope that will inspire the players to play their best."


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