KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 -- Chinese captain Zheng Zhi said on Sunday China will perform well at the Asian Cup, but the opening match against Malaysia will not be easy.

"Everything has gone well for us so far in our preparations. Things have been well organized and there is a good atmosphere in the team," he said.

He noted the opening match will be tough. "We have to meet the co-host in the opening match and that could be a very difficult test for us," he said.

"There is pressure for us to perform. I still believe that we can do well in this competition," said the Chinese captain.

China will play against co-host Malaysia on July 10 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.