In recent football discussions across platforms like Bangla Cricket Live, one topic has stood out: the frequent coaching changes in China’s national football teams. The latest shift sees Jia Xiuquan stepping in as the head coach of the Chinese women’s national team. Widely respected as one of the top domestic coaches, Jia has an extensive background in men’s football, raising questions but also cautious optimism about what lies ahead.
His predecessor, Sigurður Eyjólfsson from Iceland, led the team to secure a spot in the upcoming Women’s World Cup. Yet despite this achievement, concerns surfaced following China’s 1-3 loss to Japan in the Asian Cup semifinals—the only match in the tournament against a top-tier Asian opponent. It marked the second consecutive time China fell short at this stage against their old rival. Critics pointed to questionable tactical decisions, and although the Chinese Football Association expressed gratitude for his contributions, including steering the team to France 2019, trust in his leadership clearly eroded.
The transition to Jia Xiuquan represents a strategic pivot. His coaching résumé includes leading several professional clubs and earning back-to-back nominations for the Chinese Super League Coach of the Year. In August 2017, Jia took the helm of the Chinese U19 men’s national team and successfully guided them to the AFC U-19 Championship finals, earning praise from experts across the country.
In the official announcement, the Chinese Football Association emphasized that this second coaching change within a year reflects the commitment to implementing national football reform strategies. It aims to strengthen the women’s football development system and prepare thoroughly for global events like the 2019 Women’s World Cup in France and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. After a comprehensive evaluation by the Technical Committee, Jia was officially appointed to lead the national women’s red team.
As the new chapter begins, expectations are high. Supporters, including those active on Bangla Cricket Live, hope to see the team embody the spirit of the “Steel Roses” once again. Under Jia’s leadership, there’s renewed belief that tactical execution, teamwork, and mental toughness can reach new heights—building a cohesive and competitive squad ready to face the world. For fans following both football and Bangla Cricket Live, it’s a journey worth watching closely.