Women football squad prepares for qualifying competitions

The team finished third in their group behind Japan and China at the Asian Cup in Adelaide last month. They lost to Chinese champions and fourth-ranked Japan in the group stage, clinching their o­nly win over Chinese Taipei.

The team had few days off last week before gathering again to practise for the Beijing Olympics' first qualifying round, scheduled to take place early next year.

Asian Cup champion and host China as well as runner-up Australia automatically qualify for the Beijing Olympics finals, leaving all other Asian teams to fight for the remaining four berths at the 2008 Games.