China's women's football coach Shang Ruihua has admitted that his charges have some way to go if they are to achieve their semi-final target.

Coach John Herdman and young defender Abby Erceg believe that a winning mentality is sweeping through the New Zealand women's squad.

Shannon Boxx believes that USA coach Pia Sundhage's passion for the beautiful game will shine brightly at this year's Olympic Games.

The smooth interplay between Robin van Persie and Emmanuel Adebayor in Arsenal's pre-season games has raised hopes among Gunners fans.

Celtic head into the new Scottish Premier League campaign as firm favourites to retain the title, despite little transfer activity in the close season.

After a turbulent and ultimately disappointing 2007/08 season, Manchester City fans are hoping for greater stability under new coach Mark Hughes.

A century after football was first played at the Games, some of the world's finest players are in China with their sights set on gold and glory.

FIFA.com caught up with striker Lotta Schelin, who is keen on setting things right for Sweden in their Women's Olympic opener against China.

Previous winners of Women's Olympic gold, Norway and USA go head-to-head on the opening matchday of Group G in Qinhuangdao.

Beijing 2008's women's Group E begins in Tianjin on 6 August with China meeting Sweden and Canada facing outsiders Argentina.