Editor's note: China's national team has staged remarkable performances at this year's Asian Cup, bringing hope to Chinese long-suffering soccer fans. But China still lags far behind and there are many reasons ascribed to the dire state of Chinese men's soccer. Forum readers share their opinions. You're also welcome to leave your comments.

Bloke (Australia)

In Australia, I played soccer every weekend for more than 12 years, from age nine upwards. I also played for my school team for six years. This is the normal situation for children in Australia and America, to play lots of sports. There are more registered soccer players in Australia than China. Put all this together and there's no wonder Chinese soccer isn't developing.