Draw begins Haan dynasty

Brazil's 'Three Rs' couldn't break the deadlock

Arie Haan begins his reign as China coach with a creditable draw against the world champions in World Football's Asian Action...

Former Dutch international Arie Haan began his reign as China's national team coach with a creditable goalless draw against a full-strength Brazil team in Guangzhou on 12 February.

The Chinese, who conceded four goals against the same opposition in Seogwipo, managed to contain a Brazilian attack that included the 'three Rs' Ronaldo, Rivaldo and Ronaldinho.

"Getting a draw with China is a remarkable result," said Haan afterwards. "I'm very happy with our performance, especially since this is the first game for China after the World Cup and we didn't really have time to prepare."

Perhaps even more remarkable though in the long-term is the fact that China were able to persuade the World Cup holders to make the trip to China.

Before teams started turning to Asia for warm-up matches prior to Korea/Japan 2002, it was only the wealthy Middle East nations such as Saudi Arabia that were able to secure top-class opposition.

However Haan's chances of success in the job may hinge on whether he can persuade the Chinese FA to arrange high quality matches abroad.

His predecessor Bora Milutinovic had stated that such experience was vital for the development of the national team, yet in their preparations for Korea/Japan China ventured no further than Macau and Hong Kong during their preparations.