Chinese soccer is relishing the opportunity to capitalize on the central government's efforts to popularize the game, said Rong Zhihang, vice-chairman of the CFA and a former star player.

"The reason behind Chinese soccer's poor performance is the lack of solid basic skills and tactical awareness, which we need to cultivate in younger generations of players ... starting from childhood," Rong said.

"We are on the right track by introducing soccer training at schools. However, besides increasing the 'soccer population', improving youngsters' fitness and teaching them teamwork, promoting soccer on campuses needs to involve scouting talent.