Poor play, profanities hurt the feelings of Chinese soccer fans
Friday, 12th November 2010 ~ Maggie ~ Link ~ Comments (1)
Wang Dalei's apology press conference
China lost its first game to Japan by a score of 3-0 (do I even need to explain how serious that rivalry is?), and then, against Krygyzstan, missed a few great scoring opportunities and needed two late goals to win 2-1. Now China needs at least a draw in its third preliminary game in order to make it to the knockout round. They play Malaysia Saturday at 7:00 p.m. Beijing time at Tianhe Stadium in Guangzhou.
The football team also had a little off-field drama this week when goalkeeper Wang Dalei lashed out at fans on a microblogging site, and was suspended and compelled to issue a public apology. "It would be flattery to call you fans," Wang wrote "You're just a bunch of dogs. I never hold back what I want to say. It's because of you bunch of SB [Chinese curse word] that Chinese football can't make any progress."
Days later, Wang apologized and begged for "another chance": "I apologize sincerely to the media and supporters of the whole nation for my unpleasant words, which damaged the image of the football team, sports and China. "It's my fault. I hope you can forgive me and give me another chance." said Wang (watch his statement on Titan24.com.
Cai Jiadong, secretary-general of China's Asian Games delegation, brought out a favorite Chinese expression for the occasion, saying Wang had been "unsportsmanlike and irrational and hurt the feelings of Chinese soccer fans."
China women's team opens play Saturday against Jordan, 7:00 p.m. at University Town Main Stadium, with higher hopes than the men.
Wang Dalei image: CNR.cn
Tags: Asian Games, football, soccer, Tianhe Stadium, Wang Dalei