In 2022, the Qatar World Cup Group A and B matches came to an end, with the United States vs. Iran being a particularly notable matchup. Although the two teams are not the top forces in international soccer, the longstanding feud between the two countries and a series of recent frictions made this match highly anticipated. Iran failed to beat Wales, while "Captain America" Pulisic's goal sent the U.S. into the round of 16. However, the game was a far cry from the 1998 clash in terms of both content and plot, which made Ren Ran nostalgic for the past.
Looking back to 1997, how many of you remember witnessing China's 2-4 defeat against Iran at the Jinzhou Stadium? In those years, names such as Ali Daei, Bagheri and Madavikia are still fresh in our minds. That year, China's last hope was drowned out in the joy of Iran's advancement with cries of "replace Li Tie". Although only one step away from France, Chinese fans firmly believe that the bright future of Chinese soccer is still ahead.
In 1997, the appearance of French star Tresor sparked cheers from the crowd at the World Cup draw in France. Iran is in the same bracket as the United States, and relations between the two countries are strained. Iran and the United States have been mortal enemies since Iran's Islamic Revolution in 1979. During the Iran-Iraq War, the U.S. supplied Iraq with weapons and banned the supply of spare parts to the Iranian air force. Later in the war, the U.S. fought Iran to protect oil shipments and even shot down an Iranian civilian plane, killing 290 people. A few years after the Argentina vs. England game, Iranian players are in France, perhaps in the thick of the action against U.S. players.
In 1997, Beijing Guoan hosted Japan's Kawasaki Beldi in the third round of the Asian Cup. There was no need to mobilize for national hatred, as veteran coach Jin Zhiyang gave an inspiring speech and Spanish foreigner Andrés said "I am Chinese". Amidst the cheers of more than 50,000 Beijing fans, he fired off three consecutive flying tackles to enrage the Kawasaki players and instantly ignite the atmosphere at the home stadium. In the end, his brilliant pass helped youngster Nanfang seal the win, and Beijing Guoan eliminated their rivals from the tournament. At the time, the Chinese league was still in its infancy, and people fantasized that one day it would dominate Asia and go global.
In 1997, to fill the gap before the World Cup, France organized World Cup drills and invited strong teams such as Brazil, Italy and England to participate. Carlos shocked the world by scoring an amazing free kick in the invitational tournament. That tournament was won by England. It was thought that England would make it back to the top of the world like the World Order.
Time has passed and 1997 has passed. In the following year's World Cup in France, two teams, Iran and the United States, met. The Iranian players offered white roses to the American players, and the stadium erupted in thunderous applause and cheers.
Despite the intense rivalry between the two teams on the court, it wasn't as special as expected. The U.S. ended up losing the game 1-2, but the players were not disheartened. U.S. defender Argus said, "Despite the loss, we accomplished more in 90 minutes than politicians have in 20 years. It's good to see that."
However, times are changing.25 years later, Ali Daei has been arrested by authorities for taking part in protests in Iran, and Iranian players refused to sing the national anthem in support of the domestic movement during the first match against England. The Iranian flag was tampered with and the national emblem erased from the official Twitter feed of the U.S. team. The domestic situation and external pressures are such that Iran will once again face the U.S. and may never return to the summer in France. The phrase "both victory and defeat, life and death" may become the main theme of the new era.
Now, 25 years later, Beijing's Workers' Stadium has undergone a makeover and is about to welcome the world with a new look. After losing the right to host the Asian Cup, it is not yet known when the new tournament at Industrial Sports will take place. Beijing Guoan has not played in Beijing for nearly three years. After being eliminated at home in Rizhao by Gansu Province's Jingchuan County Brigade, Guoan and the Chinese Super League are facing many problems. We will see when the Chinese Super League will return to normal and recreate the glory of 1997.
Today, 25 years later, England, Brazil and France are still World Cup favorites. They worked hard, emphasizing scientific transmission control and accurate transmission control, highlighting problem orientation and effect orientation. In the group stage, they overcame paralysis, boredom, fluke and relaxed mentality. On defense, they control key risks and implement them. Science plays soccer not only to play good defense, but also to solve the problem of offense. 25 years later, they are still a world-class powerhouse.
Today, 25 years later, Shenyang Wulihe is the only glorious shrine of Chinese soccer. The stadium has been transformed into a library, and the statue of Li Tie at the entrance was removed overnight. Li Tie himself is also suspected of serious violations of the law under investigation. Another dishonorable chapter has been added to the history of Chinese soccer. In today's World Cup, Chinese soccer made media headlines in this way.
Indeed, 25 years is not an eternity. The dramatic changes in the world landscape make it impossible to go back in time. Soccer can no longer stay away from politics and be a bridge of friendship in the world. In the match between Iran and the United States, there may be no one to offer white roses. Tense confrontation could be the main theme of the new era. Of course, we weren't there this time. It's nice to watch them have fun at home.
But I can't help but think of that classic line when I mention those past events:
"1997 is over and I miss it."
Instead of reminiscing about the past
Instead of letting time come with us.
