RIYADH, March 20 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia national team head coach Herve Renard said on Wednesday that China has shown significant improvement recently and his team must be fully prepared for their crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Speaking ahead of Thursday's match, Renard noted that China's performance had markedly improved from the early stages of the qualifiers, crediting the team's progress to their head coach.

"Tomorrow will be a tough match," he said, while further emphasizing that China is well-organized, adept at counter-attacks, and excels in transitions from defense to attack. "We know all of that. We have to be ready for tomorrow's game."

Addressing changes in the Saudi squad, Renard revealed that he was upset by the team's performance at last December's Gulf Cup, which prompted him to make an important decision to infuse the team with youth by introducing many new faces. "It is important [for the team] to regenerate and to be aware exactly about the situation," he explained.

After six matches, Saudi Arabia and China are level on six points, sitting fourth and sixth respectively in Group C. The top two teams in the group will qualify automatically, while the third- and fourth-placed teams will advance to a playoff.

Renard stressed that his team now faces four critical matches, with every player well aware of their importance. "They want to lead Saudi Arabia into the World Cup one more time. This is a wish. They know what they have to do to bring Saudi Arabia to the World Cup. So psychologically, they will be ready," he remarked.

Saudi midfielder Faisal Al-Ghamdi also expressed optimism. "The new players are a good addition to the team. We have already participated in several training sessions together. The team's coordination and atmosphere are good. Hopefully tomorrow's match will showcase this with a good start as we strive to win the points," he said. Enditem

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