China's forward Wang Yudong shields the ball against Japanese player Kosei Ogura during the U23 Asian Cup final in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on January 24, 2026. Photo: VCG

After the Chinese men's national under-23 football team won silver in the U23 Asian Cup final on Saturday, multiple players took to the social media to express regret and hope, vowing the mission is unfinished and the fight will go on.

China suffered a 4-0 defeat to Japan in the U23 Asian Cup final, however the runners-up finish marked China's best-ever result in the tournament.

Chinese football player Hu Haotao said in a post-match interview: "We apologize for not performing at our desired level in such a critical match and failing to secure the victory. We must recognize our capabilities, respect both our opponents and ourselves, and reflect thoroughly when we return. We will strive to deliver better performances and attitudes in training and matches to repay our fans."

Echoing Hu's remarks, at the award ceremony, the young players of Chinese men's national under-23 football team showed respect for their opponents. After receiving their silver medals, they stood on the sidelines to watch the Japanese team lifted the championship trophy. Before the Chinese team stepped onto the podium, the Japanese team also formed a lineup and applauded the Chinese players.

After the final, several Chinese players reiterated on social media: "The mission remains unfinished, the fight goes on!"

"Recognize the gap, go back and train harder, strive to win the matches we should win, hold our ground firmly, and push diligently toward higher goals," wrote goalkeeper Li Hao on social media.

"We are no longer the fourth-seeded team we once were!" declared defensive mainstay Wumitijiang. "Although there were regrets, this marks a new journey. We gave our all, clearly saw the gaps, and exchanged sweat for growth. The mission remains unfinished, but our steps will not stop—we will keep fighting."

Striker Baihelamu stated: "Moving forward, I will set stricter standards for honing my skills, refining my form, and dedicating myself fully to intense training. I will respond with action to all the trust and expectations placed in me!"

"Our dreams will not remain at the bottom forever. We will face the gaps squarely and strive with all our might!" said Xiang Yuwang, who scored the decisive goal in the semifinal against Vietnam.

Li Zhenquan, the midfielder, reflected on the "dreamlike" journey: "It feels like a dream, and I also regret that I wasn't strong enough." In his post-match interview, he acknowledged the gap, stating, "We are indeed technically inferior, and there is a real disparity. I will use future matches to become stronger, push my limits next time, and perform better."

"The mission remains unfinished, but we will keep fighting. I will never forget the pain of this moment. The road ahead is long, and the true answers lie at our feet. We must find the right path and keep moving forward," said Wang Bohao.