The China men’s football Asian Games team faces its toughest test of the tournament on September 30 in Nagoya, Japan, squaring off against defending champion South Korea in the semi-finals of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. With 22 gold medals on the line during Monday’s schedule, the fixture highlights a packed day that also features the diving team’s pursuit of a historic milestone.
High Stakes and Roster Strength in the Semi-Finals
Because winning an Asian Games gold medal grants military service exemption under South Korean law, the country perennially fields formidable rosters for the tournament, capturing the previous three consecutive titles. While the South Korean squad in Nagoya lacks high-profile names such as Son Heung-min and Lee Kang-in, it still features nine players based in European clubs. That European experience creates an exacting challenge for China’s younger lineup as they aim for a spot in the final.
Diving Squad Chases Centennial Milestone
Away from the football pitch, the diving competition reaches its conclusion on September 30 with two gold medals available. Since making its debut appearance in the Asian Games in 1974, the Chinese diving team has maintained a flawless record, securing every available gold medal. Having already collected eight titles at the Nagoya Games to bring its historical tally to 90 gold medals, the squad stands just two victories away from reaching the milestone of 100 all-time Asian Games gold medals in the sport.
Speed Climbing, Archery, and Field Hockey Showdowns
Medal events extend across multiple venues on Monday. In sports climbing, Deng Lijuan and Zhou Yafei lead the charge in the women’s speed climbing event. Their primary competition includes defending champion Desak of Indonesia and South Korean climber Jeong Ji-min. Meanwhile, the archery competition features the medal rounds for the mixed team compound event—a newly added discipline for the Los Angeles Olympic cycle—where China meets South Korea in the semi-finals. In team sports, the Chinese women’s hockey team faces Japan in its respective semi-final.
Expanding Frontiers in Golf and Combat Sports
Monday also marks the opening of competition for golf, judo, and wrestling.
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- Eclaron Archery Club Resumes Training for the Indoor Competition Season
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- Phoenix Crossland Suspended Four Games for Tackle That Broke Nathan Cleary’s Leg (archyde.com)
