China's lengthy exile from the top table of international soccer looks set to continue for at least another six years unless Gao Hongbo can deliver a major turnaround in fortunes after a miserable start to the final round of World Cup qualifying. While moves inspired by President Xi Jinping to turn the country into a dominant player in the sports marketing sector continue apace, and the cash-rich club scene flourishes, there has been no upturn for the national team. Xi's "three wishes" for Chinese soccer are that the country qualifies for another World Cup after their first and only appearance in 2002, host a World Cup and eventually win one. More...