It seems like the different dimensions became apparent when we actually faced off. The interim coach of China is in the spotlight for making comments that were completely different before the tournament began.
The Japan national football team, led by coach Hajime Moriyasu, defeated China 2-0 in the second match of the 2025 East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) E-1 Championship held at Yongin Mir Stadium on the afternoon of the 12th.
With this victory, Japan recorded 2 wins (6 points) and matched with Korea, which also won on the same day, but climbed to the top of the standings with a goal difference of +7, ahead of Korea (+5).
The Korea-Japan match on the 15th has effectively become a do-or-die match for the championship.
On the other hand, China became aware of the reality after losing to Korea (0-3) and then to Japan (0-2).
On the other hand, China suffered consecutive losses after losing to Korea (0-3) and then to Japan (0-2), realizing the gap with the Asian elite. The game was also one-sided. Japan scored the opening goal in the 10th minute and added another in the second half, managing the game comfortably. Although China increased their possession and attempted a counterattack, they ultimately failed to score due to a lack of decisiveness near the box.
At the post-game press conference, some interesting comments were made. Interim coach of the China national football team, Zhu Zhiyu, expressed satisfaction even after the match against Japan. He explained, "Our players showed excellent determination and performance against a very strong Japan. I found several positive aspects in the process of building a new team."
He continued, "We are progressing step by step, and we are seeing young players grow into future stars. Although there is significant pressure to deliver results in tournaments like the East Asian Cup, our team is growing despite difficult circumstances. I send my congratulations to the Japan team," he analyzed.
In short, it means that despite the defeat, we fought well. Before the tournament began, coach Zhu Zhiyu and Chinese media expressed confidence that they could win against both Korea and Japan as both teams were seen as second string without their European players. However, this confidence was quickly shattered once they faced off.
In the final third match, China will face Hong Kong in the "third place playoff." Coach Zhu Zhiyu evaluated Hong Kong as much weaker than China, stating, "We must face all opponents with the same determination. If we maintain our determination and improve on a few details, we will definitely win."
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