As we enter the month of May, the National Team's return to action is drawing nearer and nearer, with the fans undoubtedly disappointed by the lackluster performances in the two friendly matches against New Zealand in March. As a result, the national team desperately needs a chance to rebuild its confidence and its image in the eyes of the fans during the international match days in June. In contrast to the incomplete national soccer team roster and the general form of the international players in March, Zhang Yuning, Ekson and even Fernando could be selected in June. In addition, the international players are in the middle of the league and their match form can be guaranteed, making the two matches in June all the more worthwhile.
According to domestic media reports, the opponents, match times and venues for the national soccer team during international match days in June have been determined. China's first opponent will be Myanmar on June 12, and the second match will be on June 20 against Palestine. The Barracuda Bay Stadium in Dalian has been confirmed for both matches. On June 10, the national soccer team will gather in Dalian to begin a week and a half of national team training. This time, the national soccer team will face two weaker opponents in terms of strength and ranking at home, and a loss will not be accepted. Only two consecutive victories will satisfy the outside world.
Myanmar is currently ranked 160th in the world and 34th in Asia, well below the national soccer team. Maldives is not even as strong or ranked as Maldives winning the top 40 of the national soccer team. This is the so-called Asian fish-belly team. A big win for the soccer team against Myanmar is probably the only acceptable result for outsiders, and a small win would probably be strongly resented. Palestine is stronger than Myanmar, ranked 93rd in the world and 15th in Asia behind Syria, similar to a national soccer team with Portuguese Super League star Baghdad. This game will test the national team even more and a small victory would be reasonable.
Another highlight of these two games is the Barracuda Bay Stadium in Dalian, known as China's most beautiful sea-view stadium with first-class hardware facilities and a top location. Being surrounded by sea on three sides is the only existence in China and very rare in world soccer. At present, the stadium has passed the acceptance and the Dalian People's Club U21 League has been tested in two matches. The stadium turf is excellent. As the home of the national soccer team, it can be said to be the icing on the cake.
Some domestic media confirmed with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) that they will come to China to play during the international match days in June, and the matches will be held in Beijing and Shenzhen. In Beijing, they will play a warm-up match against the national soccer team. While this news is exciting, it clashes with the national soccer team's matches against Myanmar and Palestine. It is unclear if there was an error by the Argentinean Football Federation or a change in the national team's game plan. If the national team is able to play a friendly match against the world champions Argentina, it would surely be very pleasing for the fans.
