Passionate supporters of China’s national soccer team continue to follow their beloved squad around the world, even as the team struggles to secure victories. For many, supporting the team is about more than just the final score—it’s a way of life and a deep expression of national pride.
A Journey Fueled by Devotion
Xiao Du, a 30-year-old ardent fan from Beijing, embarked on an exhausting 34-hour trip to Adelaide, Australia, to watch China face off against Australia in a World Cup qualifier. Despite the team’s fourth consecutive loss, Xiao Du remains undeterred.
“It’s not about winning or losing; it’s about being there for the team,” he said. “If you truly want something, no distance is too great.”
His journey included flights from Beijing to Shanghai, then to Sydney, and finally to Adelaide. The trip cost him nearly 30,000 yuan (about $4,500), a significant expense that he considers worthwhile.
Unwavering Support Amid Challenges
Xiao Du is not alone in his steadfast support. Other fans have also traveled great distances to cheer on the team, despite complicated visa processes and the team’s underwhelming performance in the World Cup Asian qualifiers.
- Fan Gatherings: Hours before the match, groups of Chinese supporters assembled outside the stadium, wearing red jerseys and waving flags.
- Local Communities: Many fans are Chinese residents or students living in Australia who feel a strong connection to their homeland.
- Generational Bonds: Families bring their children to the matches, hoping to instill a sense of cultural pride and support for the national team.
One fan from Perth exclaimed, “We’re giving it our all tonight!” Another from Sydney added, “No matter the result, we’ll always stand behind our team.”
The Emotional Rollercoaster of Fandom
The match ended in a 3-1 defeat for China, but the fans’ spirits remained high. Xiao Xu, who leads a local Chinese fan club in Adelaide, went out of his way to provide flags and jerseys to fellow supporters.
“The team may be struggling, but our passion never wavers,” he said. “We endure the losses together, and when victory comes, we’ll celebrate together.”
Despite the disappointment, many fans felt the team played with heart and determination.
Looking Ahead with Hope
As the team prepares for its next match against Indonesia, fans like Xiao Du continue to stand by them. He plans to travel to Qingdao to cheer them on once more.
“As supporters, we’re there through the highs and lows,” Xiao Du reflected. “They represent us, and we’ll always be behind them, hoping for that next big win.”
