Asian upstarts give Chinese fans hope

Shock results in Qatar shine light on Team China's shortcomings

Stunning soccer behemoths like Argentina and Germany in their group games, Asian teams have been a breath of fresh air at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

For Chinese fans cheering on these underdogs, it's a case of mixed emotions. Each triumph has also been a reminder of their own national team's absence from the tournament. Team China has not qualified for the World Cup finals since a solitary appearance in 2002, and recent form suggests there is a long journey ahead for the squad to return to Asia's elite ranks.

Saudi Arabia sprang the first Asian surprise in Qatar on Nov 22, a 2-1 defeat of Lionel Messi's Argentina. The following day, Japan delivered another 2-1 victory, over European powerhouse Germany. Iran then bounced back from a 6-2 drubbing against England to outplay Wales, led by former Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale.