We can beat anyone, says China's Dong

Chinese football player Dong Fangzhuo heads the ball during a training session in Kuala Lumpur, 06 July 2007. Dong on Saturday said China were confident of shrugging off recent poor form in the Asian Cup.

Manchester United forward Dong Fangzhuo on Saturday said China were confident of shrugging off recent poor form in the Asian Cup.

Dong said China, despite an unconvincing build-up, were physically and mentally ready and could beat anyone in the tournament.

"The national team is in very good condition now with good fitness and a good mentality. There's a very good atmosphere in the team and a great relationship between the players," Dong told AFP.

"We can beat anyone in this tournament so there's no problem for us."

China flopped against Australia, the United States and even Thailand in recent friendlies but are strong favourites in their opening match against Malaysia on Tuesday.

The 2004 runners-up also face three-time champions Iran and Central Asian kings Uzbekistan in a tough Group C dubbed the 'group of death.'

China reached their first World Cup finals in 2002 and lost out to Japan for the regional title two years later, but have failed to build on their success.

Coach Zhu Guanghu's job is hanging by a thread with reported orders to reach the last four "or else." Australia, Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia and Iran are the leading contenders.