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 Wang Shixian of China returns a shot in Sunday's badminton team semifinal against the Republic of Korea. Edmond Tang / China Daily |
GUANGZHOU - The Chinese women's badminton team realized its biggest dream at the Guangzhou Games on Sunday - and it didn't involve standing atop the podium.
With a new lineup and huge support from the home crowd, China defeated the Republic of Korea (ROK), 3-0, in a highly-anticipated matchup in the semifinals, six months after its unexpected loss to the same team in the Uber Cup final in Kuala Lumpur.
"Last time, we overestimated ourselves and ended up on the losing end," China's head coach, Li Yongbo, said while recalling the showdown that ended the team's 12-year stranglehold on the event.
"In Guangzhou, we adjusted the squad and asked the players to go out on the court as the underdogs. That helped them feel relaxed and calm on the court."
Li dropped then world No 1 Wang Yihan, who lost the opening singles match in the Uber Cup final, from the squad for this Asiad.
Wang Xin, who won the only match in China's 3-1 loss in Malaysia, played in Sunday's opener at the Tianhe Gymnasium and defeated Bae Youn-joo in straight sets - a player she defeated twice in their most recent encounters.
"I feel so relaxed after winning the match. I knew there were great expectations on my shoulders. I had to win the opening match for the team," said the 25-year-old Wang.
"The first set was tough, but the second was easier. I always felt well and at ease. My ability has improved, so I gradually got control of the match."
China also altered its women's doubles pairing after it suffered two losses at the Uber Cup. Wang Xiaoli and Yu Yang played the first doubles match, defeating Lee kyung-won and Ha Jung-eun 21-12, 21-19.
Wang Shixian, 20, in her first appearance for China in a team event, locked up the victory by downing Bae Seung-hee 21-18, 18-21, 21-14.
"I think she could have played even better and won the match with more ease," coach Li said of Wang. "But she is young and it is the first time she has played in a team event for China, so I am already satisfied with her effort today.
"Our ultimate goal is not revenge we have set our sights on the London Olympic Games. I'm glad that we have given more players experiences at a major event; that will benefit our preparations."
China will compete against Thailand for its fourth consecutive title at the Games.
Thailand surprised Indonesia 3-1 in Sunday's other semifinal showdown.
China Daily
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