Defending the nation's honor: China retains esports title at Asian Games

"In the first half, we were familiar friends, but we were not good teammates," Li said. "By the end, we had really come together."

He said the turning point came about a week before the team traveled to Japan, when the players reached what he described as a particularly good competitive state.

Li also emphasized the importance of communication among players with different approaches to the game.

"To come together quickly, you have to say what is really on your mind. Don't be afraid of conflict or arguments," he said. "Only then can you build a team where everyone speaks openly."