Dalian, Sep. 21 (Xinhua)–by (Reporter Liu Yichun and Wei Hua)– In the third round of group stage at The 3rd FISU University World Cup Football on September 21, the Beijing Normal University (BNU) women’s team tied Australia’s University of Sydney 1-1, advancing to the semifinals with an undefeated record of one win and two draws in the group stage. The excellent Chinese team will join the semifinal with women’s team from the Shanghai University of Sport.
BNU found themselves on the back foot conceding a goal in the fist half. The team intensified offensive after the break, creating multiple scoring opportunities through cohesive passes. Chen Rui seized a critical chance, equalizing in the 53rd minute. Despite threatening the opponent’s penalty area repeatedly in the remaining time, BNU lacked the final touch to secure the final goal.
Beijing Normal University (BNU) player Chen Rui (2nd right) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal during the match against the University of Sydney women’s football team on Sep 21. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong)
Chen Rui said that although the team appeared to have a advantage in possession, there was a risk of being caught on the counterattack due to mistakes. “The team adjusted strategy in the second half, creating space through movement. The coach also told us to stay patient, and we achieved the final target in the end.” according to Chen Rui.
When asked about the team’s performance, BNU women’s head coach Bi Yan admitted that the consecutive matches posed a significant physical challenge, but the players overcame the pressure with strong mental resilience.
Beijing Normal University (BNU) women’s head coach Bi Yan (left) tends to injured player Wang Rouyan after the match on Sep 21. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong)
Bi Yan highlighted that the greatest gains from this match were players’ competitive desire and team’s unity as well as cohesion. She expressed her hope that all players could fully enjoy the competitive atmosphere while maintaining the enthusiasm of training after rest. “It’s a growth experience for everyone. Even students with professional playing experience gain new insights from an event like this.” she added.
On Sep 25th, BNU will face the Shanghai University of Sport women’s team, who also advanced to the semifinals, competing for a spot in the final. The other finalist will be chosen between Canada’s Laval University and Brazil’s University of the Extreme South of Santa Catarina.
29 Sep
