Milutinovic: China Has More to Display

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Friday, June 07, 2002

Milutinovic: China Has More to Display

China's head coach Bora Milutinovic on Friday said his players have not yet fully displayed their capabilities. "The capabilities of our team have not been revealed yet." said Milutinovic.

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China's head coach Bora Milutinovic on Friday said his players have not yet fully displayed their capabilities.

"The capabilities of our team have not been revealed yet." said Milutinovic.

Milutinovic, dubbed "The Miracle Worker" for having guided Mexico, Costa Rica, the United States and Nigeria into the second round of past World Cup finals, is trying to repeat the feat with China -- his fifth World Cup squad.

"I think we can beat, not just Brazil but any other if we tried hard enough. Of course, I don't believe we have the ability to beat Brazil but I believe we do have luck on our side. I think the full 90 minutes it is a battle of wills. If we tried our best, I am sure we will be rewarded for our efforts in the past two years." said the Yugoslav.

China, who is making its first World Cup appearance, faces Brazil on Saturday after losing 2-0 to Costa Rica in the opening game.

Milutinovic admitted that his players were a little depressed with the defeat but said they have recovered from the match.

"In the previous game (against Costa Rica), it is true we have not performed very well. When the results are not too good we have a meeting among the players. You can always lose a game but I think it's important not to lose your dignity as well." he said.

China is not expected to pull off an upset against the star-studded Brazilian side Saturday, but Milutinovic said regardless of the result, the match itself would be memorable.

"Of course it would be great if we can only win. I believe playing against Brazil itself is very important. The basic concept of football is to be mentally prepared for how you will play in the match." said the globe-trotting coach.

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