On the training ground, as soon as the media cameras withdrew, staff from the Chinese Football Association quickly moved to pull up the fences around the field, ensuring the training was completely closed off.
Suddenly, the noise gradually dissipated, leaving only the heavy footsteps of the players and the sound of cleats rubbing against the turf.
Lippi stood in the center of the training ground, his figure appearing even more upright in the afternoon sun.
He picked up the whistle hanging around his neck and blew it softly, the crisp sound cutting through the quiet air.
Hearing the whistle, the players moved quickly, converging from all directions to form a semicircle, their gazes focused on the experienced coach.
Lippi's expression was serious, his gaze sweeping across each player's face as if to penetrate their inner thoughts.
He cleared his throat, his voice low and powerful: "Gentlemen, we dropped some points in previous matches, and now the National Team is under immense pressure.
I hope you can truly take this match seriously from the bottom of your hearts; this is not only a challenge to yourselves but also a responsibility to the nation."
Listening to Lippi's words, the players' expressions gradually became solemn.
They knew the importance of this match was self-evident, and each person bore a huge responsibility.
Seeing this, Lippi nodded and continued: "Next, I will announce my tactical plan.
I have decided to stick with our familiar three-center-back system.
I believe that under such a system, we can better utilize our team's strength to withstand the opponent's attacks."
Subsequently, Lippi's gaze turned to Lin Feng, his eyes revealing a hint of determination and expectation.
He pointed to Lin Feng, saying in a clear and powerful voice: "Lin Feng, you will play as the central center-back in the three-center-back formation this time.
This position is crucial; your goal is to mark the opponent's striker, and this is our training objective today."
Hearing Lippi's words, Lin Feng immediately straightened his chest, his eyes flashing with firm resolve.
He knew the importance of the central center-back position, the core of the team's defense, where there could be no slack.
He nodded, responding with a determined tone: "Coach, I understand.
I will mark the opponent's striker and not give him a single chance to score."
Lippi nodded in satisfaction, his eyes revealing his trust in Lin Feng.
He walked over to Lin Feng, patted his shoulder, and encouraged him: "Lin Feng, I believe in your ability.
You are the core of the team's defense, and I believe you can accomplish this task."
Subsequently, in the following training session, Lippi specifically arranged for striker Zhang Yuning to be Lin Feng's simulated opponent in training.
He knew that Qatar's striker Soria and Zhang Yuning were quite similar in height and style, and this arrangement would help Lin Feng better adapt to and cope with the upcoming match.
On the training ground, Lin Feng and Zhang Yuning stood facing each other, both wearing special training vests with conspicuous numbers.
The surrounding teammates spread out, leaving enough space for the two to engage in a one-on-one confrontation.
Lippi stood on the sidelines, whistle in hand, closely watching every move of the two.
He occasionally nodded, occasionally frowned, constantly adjusting his tactical arrangements.
With a blow of Lippi's whistle, the training officially began.
Zhang Yuning quickly started, rushing towards Lin Feng's defensive line.
He used his height advantage, constantly attempting to break through Lin Feng's defense with headers and long passes.
Lin Feng, on the other hand, focused intently on marking Zhang Yuning, constantly adjusting his position, using his body to block the opponent's attacking routes.
He moved quickly at times, stood firm at others, demonstrating the calm and decisiveness of an excellent center-back.
The confrontation between the two became increasingly intense, with every challenge drawing the attention of their surrounding teammates.
Every breakthrough by Zhang Yuning was cleverly neutralized by Lin Feng, and every defense by Lin Feng put increased pressure on Zhang Yuning.
Lippi stood on the sidelines, his gaze fixed on Lin Feng and Zhang Yuning on the field.
Their duel was fierce and tense, with every offensive and defensive transition tugging at Lippi's heart.
As the match progressed, Lin Feng displayed excellent defensive skills and awareness.
He could not only accurately judge the opponent's attacking routes but also react quickly, using his body or feet to block the opponent's attacks.
His performance made Lippi increasingly satisfied, his eyes sparkling with admiration.
At the same time, Zhang Yuning also demonstrated his characteristics.
His off-the-ball movement impressed Lippi; he always appeared in the right position at critical moments, posing a threat to the opponent.
Lippi couldn't help but nod, also affirming Zhang Yuning's performance.
After the match, Lippi walked to the entire team, a satisfied smile on his face.
He cleared his throat and said loudly: "Today's training was very successful, especially the performances of Lin Feng and Zhang Yuning, which I am very pleased with."
He turned to Lin Feng, patted his shoulder, and continued: "Lin Feng, you are currently the best defensive player I have in the country.
Your performance makes me feel very reassured, and I believe that in the upcoming matches, you will continue to showcase your abilities and build a solid defensive line for the team."
Then, he looked at Zhang Yuning, smiling as he said: "Zhang Yuning, your off-the-ball movement is impressive.
Your positioning is very clever, always creating trouble for the opponent at critical moments.
This is also what our team needs."
Subsequently, the National Team, led by Lippi, began practicing passing and receiving drills.
On the training ground, the players spread out, forming different passing groups, and began practicing.
Lippi stood aside, whistle in hand, observing the players' performance with keen eyes.
He knew that the defensive line's ability to play the ball out was crucial in a match, so he constantly emphasized the importance of passing.
However, under high-pressure pressing, many players appeared somewhat flustered, unable to pass the ball smoothly.
Whenever this happened, Lippi would blow his whistle, pause the training, and then point out the problems players had with passing.
Just as everyone was feeling a bit frustrated, Lin Feng's performance caught Lippi's attention.
Facing pressing teammates, Lin Feng showed no panic; he calmly observed the situation on the field, looking for passing opportunities.
When the ball reached his feet, he reacted quickly, passing the ball accurately to a teammate.
His movements were fluid and confident, as if he had completely dismissed the pressing from his mind.
Lippi watched Lin Feng's performance, a satisfied expression appearing in his eyes.
He walked over to Lin Feng, patted his shoulder, and smiled: "Lin Feng, you did very well.
Being able to stay calm and successfully pass the ball under pressure is very rare.
Your experience in Europe has made you more mature and confident."
Lin Feng's performance further solidified his position as the core of the National Team's defense.
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