On Friday, Marcello Lippi, the newly-appointed head coach of the Chinese national football team, accompanied by China Football Association (CFA) President Cai Zhenhua, attended his first news conference in Beijing. Lippi said he agreed to become the head coach because he has special affection for Chinese football and appreciates the respect he has received from the country. He said China faces a tough road to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

But he believes players can complete the seemingly impossible mission through better teamwork and shouldering more responsibilities. The 68-year-old is expected to make his debut with the team on Nov. 15 in the FIFA World Cup qualifier against Qatar.