China's run came to an end last night with defeat to Brazil, but experienced Shenzhen Jianlibao defender Li Weifeng said: "We need to give more opportunities and time to our younger players. Chinese people are eager to see us succeed, but the players need to be given more time to grow. There were parts of the match when we matched Brazil.

"We had some opportunities, but didn't take them. But you have to remember Ronaldinho is worth the entire China squad put together, so we have a long way to go."