Zhang Na (L) of China fights for the ball during the 2011 women's four-nation tournament match against Sweden in Southwest China's Chongqing municipality, Jan 23, 2011. [Photo/Xinhua]

But this time in Chongqing, it seemed that Li's work finally got paid.

The 35-year-old coach, who concentrated more on the improving processes than results, didn't hesitate to use young players. The goalkeeper Zhang Yue, only 20, is always a substitute for the first-choice Zhang Yanru. But she has got more chances after the Asian Games. Much of the credit for the victory went to Zhang as she produced several world class save in the match.

Among the Chinese team, three are under the age of 20, and the oldest player is only 26. The young players have big potentials.

Former Chinese men's national team player Li Jinyu is also a big help for the women's team. He joined the team as the assistant coach in January and especially took charge of the training of the strikers. At the four nations, the 24-year-old striker You Jia's performance was quite eye-catching and Li Xiaopeng owed the progress to Li Jinyu.

"Li Jinyu's arrival is no doubt a big help to us," said the head coach. "Our strikers made a lot of progress after trained by Li."

As China failed to qualify for the World Cup in June, the biggest challenge for them in the year is to clinch a berth in the 2012 Olympics. With only two slots allocated to Asia for the tournament, it will be no easy.

"I need more time to make improvement," said Li. "But I am confident that my players have potentials. The four nations will be a good experience for us."