BEIJING, April 21: China coach Ratomir Dujkovic admits Brazil are favourites to win the men's Olympic football gold medal but feels his side has an excellent chance of joining them in the knockout rounds.

Brazil, who are expected to field superstars Kaka and Alexandre Pato, and China were drawn in the same group on Sunday, but they avoided defending champions Argentina and World Cup holders Italy.

Also in their section are Belgium and New Zealand, with the top two from each group progressing to the quarter-finals.

Hosts China open their Group C account against New Zealand on August 7 and play their final match against Brazil.

“It's not a bad draw. Of course I hope Brazil will play with us when it already has six points. Then we have a big chance of advancing into the next round with them,” Dujkovic told the China Daily newspaper.

“Though Brazil is hot favourite of the group and is also the title favourite, I still hope we can make some trouble. We are playing at home and though we respect Brazil we will not give up.”

China's former PSV Eindhoven defender Sun Xiang added: “Brazil will be the toughest rivals of this group.

“Belgium represent European opposition but given that their senior side are not that strong, I think we can compete against them at the Olympic level.

“New Zealand are the least known for us but we should have our chance against them.” Argentina will be pleased with the way the draw panned out for them, pitted in Group A with Olympic newcomers Ivory Coast, surprise European qualifiers Serbia and Australia's Olyroos.

Group B comprises three-time bronze-medalists The Netherlands, the United States, Nigeria and Asian stalwarts Japan, while Italy take on South Korea, Cameroon and Honduras in Group D.—AFP

Opinion

Editorial

United stance
13 Nov, 2024

United stance

BEYOND rhetoric, unity is rare within the Muslim world. Yet it was reassuring to see Muslim states speak with one...
Unscheduled visit
13 Nov, 2024

Unscheduled visit

AN IMF mission is in Islamabad for unusual, early talks with the Pakistani authorities as the lender seems worried...
Bara’s businesswomen
13 Nov, 2024

Bara’s businesswomen

BARA tehsil, a region typically known for its security challenges and socioeconomic problems, can now boast the...
System failure
Updated 12 Nov, 2024

System failure

Relevant institutions often treat right to internet connectivity with the same disdain as they do civil and political rights.
Narrowing the gap
12 Nov, 2024

Narrowing the gap

PERHAPS a pat on the back is in order for the ECP. Together with Nadra, it has made visible efforts to reduce...
Back on their feet
12 Nov, 2024

Back on their feet

A STIRRING comeback in the series has ended Pakistan’s 22-year wait for victory against world champions Australia....