Dubai: China have set up a high-profile friendly against France on June 5 as part of their preparations for the AFC Asian Cup 2011 finals to be held in Qatar.
China are in the midst of negotiations with several Fifa World Cup 2010 teams as they seek more match exposure.
So far, Greece and Switzerland have agreed to play China. The matches are scheduled for early June, which is before the World Cup 2010 showcase in South Africa.
The China Football Association (CFA) is also in talks with European giants Portugal and Spain to play friendlies in China.
Despite losing 2-0 to Portugal last Wednesday, China managed to put up a credible show.
China also plans to play two Asian teams when the Chinese Super League 2010 takes a break during the Fifa World Cup finals, this June.
China have high hopes of making the Fifa World Cup 2014 qualifiers this year and the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2011 Finals.
The country has climbed 20 rungs up in Fifa's world ranking, rising to 83rd spot since Gao Hongbo took over as coach.
"We would like to play better opponents, the stronger the better. We are moving in the right direction and I see no reason why we can't improve even further," Gao said.
"We are planning to play five to six more high-quality matches before the World Cup qualifiers. We need to compete against more world class opponents to see how we stand in the international football arena," he added.
"Tough matches against big guns will help my players improve their physical and mental strength and become more matured and consistent."
