Chinese Soccer Veteran Zhang Linfeng Hints at Retirement After Shocking Draw Against Singapore
Zhang Linfeng, a veteran defender of the Chinese national soccer team, hinted at retirement following the shocking draw against Singapore.
According to a report by Chinese media outlet Jingbao Wang on the 22nd, Zhang Linfeng met with his country's reporters in the joint coverage area (mixed zone) after the third match of Group C of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup Asia 2nd qualifying round between China and Singapore held the previous day and said, "I will now end my national team career.
“I think it's time,” he said.
He continued, “I feel sorry for the fans because now even Singapore can't win.” 바카라사이트
China seemed to be winning comfortably, taking the lead in the first half with consecutive goals from Wu Lei.
However, the defense collapsed in the second half and they gave up two goals.
Coincidentally, Zhang Linfeng's erroneous play occurred in both goals.
In the 8th minute of the second half, Singapore Paris Ramli's shot was deflected off Zhang Linfeng's foot and entered the Chinese goal.
Zhang Linfeng made an even more critical mistake when conceding the equalizer in the 36th minute of the second half.
It was a futile attempt to clear the ball in a chaotic situation at the goal, and Jakub Mahler, who was next to him, did not miss the shot and shook the Chinese net.
Jingbao Wang said, “Jang Linfeng spoke with a look of dejection,” and “in particular, I felt a sense of resentment, helplessness, and extreme regret for conceding a goal through his own mistake.”
34-year-old veteran Zhang Linfeng is a defender that China is proud of, having played as a centerback and fullback at the highest level in Asia.
He debuted in Shanghai Dongya in 2006 and has been playing in the Chinese Super League for 19 years.
He has been a key player in the national team for a long time.
He also joined the Century Club, playing 105 A matches before Singapore.
