China Aims for eSports Football Glory with New National Team

China is making a significant push into the world of football eSports, driven by a national desire for success on the digital pitch. The Chinese Football Association (CFA) recently announced plans to establish its own national eSports football team. This development has sparked excitement among players like Zhao Yitang, who experienced competitive play this summer. Zhao, a recent graduate, competed in the “eFootball” championship held in Tokyo, where he finished in second place, marking China’s best international result in the game, formerly known as Pro Evolution Soccer.

The CFA’s initiative aims to create a competitive team for eSports events organized by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation. Zhao expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “If I could join the national team I would go all-out in my efforts for the side.” With eSports gaining immense popularity globally, China is keen to capitalize on this trend as it continues to grapple with challenges in traditional football.

Challenges in Real-Life Football

Despite the fervent support for football in China, the country’s national team has struggled for decades. As of now, the men’s team ranks 93rd in FIFA’s global standings and has failed to qualify for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. The CFA’s efforts in eSports could provide a new avenue for national pride and achievement, particularly as the gaming sector thrives in the country.

China represents one of the largest gaming markets in the world, but the financial incentives for football eSports players remain modest compared to other eSports titles. Unlike popular titles such as League of Legends or Dota 2, where top players can earn substantial salaries, football eSports lacks the same level of financial backing. A leading player in the field, who requested anonymity as Monaco, highlighted the challenges, noting that even the most successful players can earn only around 70,000 RMB (approximately $9,800) annually before taxes, making it difficult to pursue a full-time career in this niche.

Investing in the Future of eSports

Despite the obstacles, some clubs are actively investing in eSports. Changchun Yatai, a team in the Chinese Super League, stands out as one of the few clubs dedicated to establishing a presence in the eSports sector. Manager Pan Shuyin remarked, “We are the only football club in the whole Chinese Super League, maybe even the only football club in China, continuously investing in eSports.” This commitment aims to attract younger fans while navigating the challenging financial landscape of eSports.

While Chinese teams have participated in international football eSports tournaments in the past, they currently do not appear on the roster for the forthcoming FIFAe World Cup, scheduled for December in Saudi Arabia. This gap underscores the need for investment and development within the eSports football community.

Zhao, also known as “Ding” or “Teacher Ding” within the eSports community, discovered football video games in 2018 as a way to unwind from his academic and athletic commitments. He emphasized that a solid understanding of real-life football is essential to excel in eSports, stating, “If you watch a lot of real-life football matches, or play a lot of real-life football, you will have your own understanding of how to succeed in eSports.”

As the CFA prepares to launch its national eSports team, the future of football in China—both on the pitch and in the digital realm—remains to be seen. With the right investments and support, eSports could provide a new chapter for a nation eager to achieve football glory at last.