WINNIPEG, Canada, June 13 -- China will be fighting for three points in their last group match against New Zealand on Monday, even if a draw is enough to secure them a spot in the last-16 in the women's World Cup.
China has three points after two matches, behind host Canada who leads Group A with four points. The third-placed Netherlands, who was outclassed 1-0 by China, also has three points while New Zealand is at the bottom with one.
Chinese players said on Saturday that they would not be distracted by other possibilities to progress and instead focus on playing best football.
"What we care about is how to beat our opponents. We want to play well in every match," said Chinese captain Wu Haiyan before a training session.
Chinese goalkeeper Wang Fei echoed by saying that fighting for victory is what the team think. "Our opponents have no other choice and will definitely be fighting hard for a win. So do us. We will go all out to play our best game."
China suffered a controversial last-minute penalty decision in the opening match against Canada. But they rallied to overcame the Netherlands 1-0 with dominating display and attacking football in the second group match.
Day|Week