In this file photo dated Oct 9, 2022, Cai Taixu (left) of China vies with Nestory Irankunda (center) of Australia during their qualifying match of the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2023, in Sydney, Australia. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

CHON BURI, Thailand - China is set to kickstart their AFC U-17 Asian Cup campaign here Friday, with head coach Yang Chen aiming to inspire Chinese fans with a commendable team performance.

"Our team is well-prepared. We've analyzed our opponents and we're committed to showcasing our best," Yang said at a pre-match press conference on Thursday.

China will venture into uncharted territory in their opening Group C match against Tajikistan, as the two teams have never faced off in the tournament before.

"The first match is always the most crucial," said Yang. "Despite never playing against Tajikistan, we have scrutinized their game through various channels and will strive to deliver our top performance."

Despite never playing against Tajikistan, we have scrutinized their game through various channels and will strive to deliver our top performance.

Yang Chen, head coach

China's group also includes Australia and Saudi Arabia, which were both group winners in the qualifiers. China lost to Australia 3-1 in the qualifiers but advanced as one of the best group runner-ups.

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The Chinese team arrived in Bangkok on June 3 and participated in two friendlies. Yang affirmed the team is in prime condition and fully prepared for the tropical heat, seasonal rainstorms, and nighttime play.

"The team will endeavor to give their best in every match. Our immediate goal is to qualify for the next round, after which we can strive to reach our ultimate aim - being among the top four teams in the tournament to qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup," Yang told Xinhua.

"We'll be focusing on one match at a time, given the strength of our opponents," said the former Bundesliga striker who represented China in its only World Cup appearance in 2002.

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"We must demonstrate our spirit in the match. That's paramount. And, as I've mentioned before, we need to deliver quality performances to inspire our Chinese fans," Yang noted.