China's midfielder Zheng Zhi said he is in good shape and looking forward to play in front of thousands of home fans.

Zheng Zhi [Sina.com]

Zheng, a native of Shenyang of northeast China's Liaoning Province, will lead the team to fight group opponents in his hometown from Aug. 7.

"I feel honored to display myself in front of my hometown fans," Zheng said. "I am well prepared and hope that people here can see my progress and good performance."

Zheng, who plays for English club Chalton Athletic, said the team had been anticipating the Olympic Games for a long time.

China is drawn in the same group with Brazil, Belgium and New Zealand in Group C.

"It's a good opportunity to take on Brazil in group stage," he said. "It's very different from a tune-up match or a friendly. To play the strongest team in Olympics is good for the progress of our players."

"As an overage player, I hope to play my role well to help our team achieve the target," he added.

China has aimed at a semifinal berth in the tournament and reaching the knockout stage is the bottom-line, according to coach Yin Tiesheng.

(Xinhua News Agency August 6, 2008)