China’s football dreams have long been a tale of unfulfilled potential, but what if the path to glory isn’t on the grass, but on the screen? As the global phenomenon of football eSports surges, China is pivoting its ambitions to the virtual pitch, hoping to finally claim the success that has eluded it in the physical sport for decades. And this is the part most people miss: while real-life football in China grapples with corruption and match-fixing scandals, the digital arena offers a fresh start—one that’s already sparking hope among players like 21-year-old Zhao, who recently clinched second place in Tokyo’s eFootball championship.
The Chinese Football Association (CFA) has boldly announced plans to assemble a national eSports football team, a move that could redefine the country’s sporting legacy. Zhao, a recent graduate, is among those inspired by this initiative. “If I could join the national team, I’d give it my all,” he told AFP, his enthusiasm echoing the sentiment of a generation eager to prove themselves in this emerging field.
But here’s where it gets controversial: despite China’s status as a gaming powerhouse, football eSports remains a niche with limited financial rewards. Unlike blockbuster titles like League of Legends or Dota 2, where top players earn seven-figure salaries and lucrative sponsorships, virtual football is still in its infancy. Former pro player Monaco (a pseudonym to avoid online harassment) bluntly stated, “The prize money is too little. It’s nearly impossible to make a living playing full-time.” Even dominating every tournament would net a player just 70,000 RMB ($9,800) annually before taxes—a stark contrast to other eSports careers.
This financial gap raises a thought-provoking question: Can football eSports truly thrive in China without better incentives? Pan Shuyin, manager of the eSports division at Changchun Yatai, estimates that only 10 people in the entire country can sustain a living from it. Yet, Changchun is defying the odds by becoming the only Chinese Super League club consistently investing in eSports, aiming to attract younger fans through this platform. “The bar for playing soccer games is higher,” Pan explained, noting that success often requires a deep understanding of real-life football—a barrier that limits its mainstream appeal.
Globally, football eSports is gaining traction, with events like the ePremier League and its inclusion as a medal event in the 2023 Asian Games. However, China’s absence from the upcoming FIFAe World Cup in Saudi Arabia highlights the challenges it still faces. Zhao, affectionately nicknamed ‘Teacher Ding’ by the community, discovered football gaming in 2018 as a way to relax between studies and training. His insight? “Watching or playing real-life football gives you an edge in eSports,” he said, underscoring the unique blend of skills required.
As China chases its digital football dream, the journey is far from over. Will it finally taste victory, or will the financial hurdles keep it from reaching the summit? What do you think—is football eSports China’s best shot at global sporting success, or just another chapter in its struggle for glory? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
